Duclair’s resurgence comes at right time for Islanders

When the New York Islanders signed Anthony Duclair during the 2024 offseason, the hope was that he could translate his goal-scoring abilities into a good run in Long Island.

But last season was an awful one for Duclair. He went down with a groin injury early in the season and did not fully recover. He appeared in 44 games, scoring just seven goals and 11 points.

The overall year was disappointing for the Islanders, with Duclair being the whipping boy. Duclair needed to take a step back to recover physically and mentally. It seems the break, plus the change in management, helped the 30-year-old turn things around.

This season, Duclair has appeared in 46 games. Already four more than last season. Plus, Monday night’s two goals against the Vancouver Canucks doubled his point totals from last season.

Duclair now has 11 goals and 22 points on the season. And he’s heating up at the right time. He’s scoring four goals in his last four games, with his confidence improving by the day.

Indeed, Duclair’s resurgence comes at the right time for the Islanders. The club is in the midst of a strong run, going 6-3-1 in its last 10 games. Most importantly, the Isles are two points up on the Pittsburgh Penguins for the second spot in the Metro Division.

There’s no question the Islanders would not be where they are if not for Duclair’s fantastic bounce-back season.

Duclair has helped Islanders offset loss of Palmieri

The loss of Kyle Palmieri was a devastating one for the Islanders this season. But it’s been players like Duclair, Emil Heineman, and Simon Holmstrom who’ve stepped up and carried the load.

Duclair’s play on the top line has helped stabilize the Islanders’ offense. That’s been crucial considering that Bo Horvat has also spent time on the shelf this season. It’s safe to say that Duclair has minimized the need for acquiring another top-six forward this season.

The bottom line is that Duclair’s resurgence this season has given the Islanders the peace of mind to avoid making drastic moves. Heading into the trade deadline, that’s a fantastic place for GM Mathieu Darche to be in. Darche can add pieces based on specific needs, rather than try to swing for the fences and overpay for a middle-six forward on the open market.

The next batch of games leading up to the Olympic break should determine the path forward for the Islanders’ deadline plans. Whatever the route, one thing is certain: The Islanders won’t have to panic thanks to Duclair’s remarkable turnaround season.