Assessing the New York Islanders at the midway mark of 2024-25 season

Special teams

Earlier this season, I pointed toward a rare occurrence in a game the Isles won against the Toronto Maple Leafs. That game was played entirely 5-on-5. Neither side got the gate, allowing the Islanders to skate away with a 6-3 win.

That has been the story of the Islanders’ season. Special teams have been a hindrance, not a benefit. Currently, the New York Islanders rank last in the league with an 11% power play rating. As for the penalty kill, well, that’s dead last, too.

As much as some would like to pin the blame on the lack of high-end scorers on the club, this dismal power play and penalty kill are on the coaching staff. The coaches have been unable to find a way to mix things up, giving the players an opportunity to unleash their full potential.

Yes, the power play could use a strong net-front presence. Sure, the penalty kill could use more speed. But when looking at the roster, there are players who fit that description, at least on paper.

So, if the players aren’t delivering on special teams, it’s up to the coaching staff to hold their feet to the fire. Unfortunately, my observation has been Patrick Roy treading water all year long.

The expression on Roy’s face when the Isles won their last game against the Boston Bruins in overtime said it all. The broadcast caught Roy letting out a huge sigh of relief as he headed to the dressing room after the Isles blew the lead but salvaged the game.

Don’t get me wrong, Roy is a good coach. However, he took on a complex challenge in Long Island. He inherited a largely dysfunctional team that has been unable to shake off some of its bad habits. Roy has made strides in leaving the past behind.

But there’s still work to be done. I’m afraid that if the Isles fizzle out in the second half, Roy will be the one to shoulder the blame, when the finger should be pointed at everyone in the locker room.