NY Islanders assistant coach implementing power play looks from Colorado Avalanche

The New York Islanders wasted no time diving into special teams work at training camp, and players are already noticing a fresh approach under new assistant coach Ray Bennett.

“Yeah, I mean that’s exactly what it is — just a fresh perspective,” defenseman Tony DeAngelo said after practice. “He’s giving us some looks from his time in Colorado. They had a lot of success with their entries and puck movement, so hopefully we can piggyback off that. We know we have the talent to do it, it’s just about execution.”

The forward unit featured familiar names like Mathew Barzal, Bo Horvat, and new addition Jonathan Drouin. The goal: stabilize a power play that was a key factor in the team missing the playoffs.. Early chemistry, players said, will be key. “To me, entries are the most important part,” DeAngelo explained. “Once we get set up, I think with the five guys we have — and even the second unit — we’ll make plays. Today was a good start.”

One of the newcomers drawing attention is Maxim Shabanov, the skilled Russian winger. “Super smooth, super skilled,” DeAngelo said. “For being a pretty light guy, he’s strong on the puck. I’m looking forward to watching him play.” Having experience in the KHL gave the veteran a point of reference, though he joked his Russian language skills remain minimal.

On defense, Matthew Schaefer, the Isles’ No. 1 overall pick, turned heads with his poise at the point. “He’s super impressive,” the veteran added. “Deceptive, walks the line, head up, moves both sides, can shoot. At this point, I don’t need to see any more practice — I just want to watch him play games.”

With speed, patience, and a handful of fresh skill injected into the lineup, the Islanders are hoping their retooled power play is no longer a sore spot, but a difference-maker.