Did the New York Islanders Do Enough this Offseason?

In true Lou Lamoriello fashion, the New York Islanders had an under-the-radar offseason. The biggest addition was Anthony Duclair who joined the team on a four-year deal.

Also, the potential arrival of Maxim Tsyplakov could give the Islanders’ secondary scoring a much-needed boost.

But beyond that, there were very few movements this offseason. So, this situation begs the question, “Did the New York Islanders do enough this offseason?”

The short answer is no. There are gaps in the team that need to be addressed. For example, scoring has been a major issue over the last couple of seasons.

Similarly, depth on the blue line has been a big concern. If injuries strike the back end like last year, who’s next up in line?

Perhaps Lamoriello has some cards hidden up his sleeve that we don’t know about. But a deeper answer to this question is that, sometimes, standing pat is the best way to go.

Let’s put it this way: It’s like a high-stakes poker game. There are times when the best move is to sit on your hand. Well, it seems that’s what the Isles are doing this offseason.

As crazy as it seems, it actually makes sense.

If we assume the New York Rangers and Carolina Hurricanes are destined to capture to top two spots in the Metro Division, the Isles will have to duke it out with the New Jersey Devils and Washington Capitals for the third spot in the division.

Both the Devils and Capitals made significant moves this offseason. But just because those clubs made big moves, doesn’t mean the Islanders have to follow suit.

The New York Islanders Won’t Get Caught up in an Arms Race

One of the biggest mistakes executives often make is trying to keep up with the Joneses. Sure, the Caps and Devils made a big splash this offseason. But given the way things went last season, they had to. Neither club could afford to stand pat.

Meanwhile, the New York Islanders are not in that position. The Isles already made a coaching change. There wasn’t a need for a top-line center, nor did the Isles need a number-one goaltender. By that logic, what else could the Isles have done this offseason?

In my estimation, fans should be looking toward the first roster cuts at training camp. When players from other organizations begin to hit the waiver wire, the Islanders could be active. Often, solid players hit waivers, allowing savvy organizations to swoop in and fill out their rosters on the cheap.

Knowing Lou Lamoriello, there’s a pretty good chance that’s where the Islanders’ eyes are fixed on.

Stay tuned because things could get very interesting over the next few weeks.