3 lessons Patrick Roy learned when experimenting with the NY Islanders lines

2. Brock Nelson is not a winger either

Coaches and fans alike are allowed to be wrong when writing out an ideal lineup card. For years, Islanders fans have asked the question, "Why doesn't Nelson play alongside Barzal?" Out of pure assumption, Roy must have asked the same question. With the team failing to generate offense, Roy moved Nelson to the top unit to play alongside Barzal and Horvat.

For a period of games, the trio seemed to be working well together. The Isles won back-to-back games against the San Jose Sharks and Anaheim Ducks, leading us to believe the new top-line was destined for success. However, the production was secluded to just Barzal and Horvat as Nelson went ten straight games without scoring a goal.

In reaction, Roy has reverted to the second line that led the Isles to the playoffs in 2022-23. Nelson is now back playing in his natural position, centering Pierre Engvall and Palmieri. Since pairing the trio back together, Nelson finally scored his 30th goal of the season while Pamieri has been hovering around the net. As much as fans would have loved Nelson to play alongside Barzal, his best performances this season have come as a centerman with Palmieri by his side.