Matias Maccelli has become on X-factor on the NY Islanders' power play

It seems like it’s been forever since the NY Islanders have had a competent power play, and for the most part, this season has been no different. Through 19 games this season, the Islanders sit 28th overall, converting on 17.2% of man advantages.

However, one player appears to be an X-factor in getting the top unit clicking. Of course, Matthew Schaefer and Bo Horvat are the straws that stir the drink, but Matias Maccelli has been the third musketeer on the top unit.

Horvat and Schaefer are leading the Islanders in power play points with seven (5 G, 2 A), with Maccelli and Schenn just trailing, both with four points. All four of Maccelli’s points are assists while playing just 32:01 on the man advantage, compared to Schenn’s 58:49.

After missing nine games with a lower-body injury, Maccelli made his presence on the power play known immediately, recording an assist on a Schaefer power play goal against the Los Angeles Kings in his first game back. Then, last night, Maccelli found Horvat in the bumper position, hammering the puck home just six seconds into the man-advantage.

Maccelli has found comfort on the left side of the diamond, typically working the puck back to Schaefer at the point or Horvat in the bumper. In years past, this position has belonged to Mathew Barzal, but with Barzal missing the first 18 games of the season, Maccelli has benefited from the opening. With Barzal returning to the ice last night, Maccelli remained in that position, but Barzal will surely be working to retain his spot. Barzal could be beneficial to the second unit while Maccelli is thriving with the top unit, but we’ll see how the lineup plays out as Barzal continues to work himself back into game shape.

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