Should the Islanders Call Up Anatolii Golyshev?

Since joining the Bridgeport Islanders Anatolii Golyshev has made a name for himself. The 26 year old Russian has been steady for Bridgeport, with seven points (5 goals, 2 assists) in 10 games played so far.

It’s not a surprise that his game has transferred over well. He was a solid player for Avtomobilist Yekaterinburg for years in the KHL before making his way over to North America.

The question now is, should the New York Islanders call him up or leave him where he is?

With his strong play in the AHL, some have wanted the Islanders to call him up to the pro level and today at practice, Barry Trotz hinted at some personnel changes. Could this be what he meant by changes?

While I’m extremely happy with Golyshev’s production at the AHL level, I’m not sure who he is going into the lineup at the NHL level to replace. The Islanders don’t exactly have forward spots in the starting lineup up for grabs unless there is an injury.

Now if you want to make the case that he should be the 13th forward, I can’t exactly disagree with that logic. He is likely a higher ceiling player than both Kieffer Bellows and Ross Johnston, who are currently the extra two forwards.

With Johnston’s new contract, you’d imagine that makes him waiver proof. I’d be completely fine with sending Johnston down in favor of Golyshev. They’re different kinds of players, obviously, but Johnson really only has a fourth-line role while Golyshev and to an extend Bellows could fill in anywhere in the top nine.

So sure, Golyshev up to the pros to be an extra is something I’m cool with. Golyshev up and into the lineup? I’m not exactly sure where that comes into play at this point.