Can Jean-Gabriel Pageau’s Plus Side Enough for the New York Islanders?

MINUS

The biggest downside to Pageau is his contract. He signed a six-year, $30 million deal in 2020, making him an expensive third-line center.

That’s where most of the criticism focuses on Pageau. Critics point out that he’s paid too much to be a bottom-six forward. While that may be true, the New York Islanders signed Pageau to that deal hoping he would blossom into a top-six center.

However, that has yet to be the case.

It is possible that Pageau can emerge as a second-line center. But with Bo Horvat and Brock Nelson anchoring the top two lines, it will be difficult for Pageau to move up unless injuries plague the team.

Beyond his contract, there’s little to criticize in Pageau’s game. Sure, we could ask for more offensive production. But being realistic, 15 to 20 goals and 30 to 40 points a year is not bad for Pageau. Most importantly, he’s been consistent in his overall approach.

Speaking of consistency, critics also point out that Pageau has prolonged cold streaks. He’s often entirely off the scoresheet, periodically re-emerging to score in bunches before fading away again.

Now, it’s not that I want to make excuses for Pageau, but it’s crucial to understand his role on the team. That role revolves around playing a solid all-around game as part of a functional third line. A third-line center must do a little bit of everything, ensuring he doesn’t mess up at the worst possible time.

The Verdict

On the whole, the New York Islanders have one of the best third-line centers in the league, if slightly overpaid. While it’s entirely possible to get a functional third-liner for half of Pageau’s contract, the fact of the matter is that center depth comes at a premium in the NHL.

If Pageau can return to the 40-point mark this season, his $5 million cap hit won’t look nearly as bad. Moreover, if he can hit 20 goals, many question marks will go away.

But allow me to be bold. Given the way the Isles’ third line looks to be set up this season, all three of Pageau, Lee, and Engvall could have a resurgent year. If that materializes, the Isles could become serious contenders in the Metro Division.