NY Islanders prospect finding out his biggest weapon plays at the NHL level

Cole Eiserman is getting a better sense of how his game translates to the NHL, and the early returns are helping build his confidence.

The New York Islanders prospect said following a 2-1 preseason loss to the New Jersey Devils that facing NHL players and goaltenders has given him an opportunity to test the parts of his game he hopes will eventually earn him a full-time role.

“It’s a league I want to be in,” Eiserman said. “I definitely got to shoot against those guys to, you know, play in this league.”

Eiserman, known for his shot and goal-scoring ability, said NHL goaltenders present a different challenge because of their size and composure. He also pointed to one scoring opportunity created by a quick pass into his shooting area.

“It was kind of right in my wheelhouse a little bit,” Eiserman said. “So it was good.”

The experience has also reinforced Eiserman’s belief that he is becoming more comfortable with the pace of professional hockey. After making the transition from the NCAA to Bridgeport, Eiserman said the speed initially took time to adjust to.

“I feel really confident out there,” Eiserman said. “I definitely feel like the game slowed down a little bit than it did in Bridgeport.”

Eiserman said he is beginning to better understand where he needs to be on the ice and how to put himself in position to use his offensive strengths. Playing alongside NHL players has also helped make that transition easier.

“I think I’m figuring out my game a lot more and in the right spots a lot more,” Eiserman said. “So it makes the game better.”

For Eiserman, preseason has provided more than an opportunity to compete for a roster spot. It has given him a chance to measure his game against NHL competition and gain confidence that his offensive tools can translate to the next level.

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