Expect few surprises with the New York Islanders defensive core at training camp this fall

The battle for the seventh defenseman spot

The only roster battle I can foresee this fall is the seventh defenseman slot. Samuel Bolduc seems to have an edge on this roster spot. Last year, the club was forced to deploy Roberto Bortuzzo amid injuries. However, Bortuzzo is gone, meaning the seventh defenseman spot is Bolduc’s to lose.

But if there anyone else beyond Bolduc who could win that seventh blue line spot?

As it stands, the New York Islanders are relatively thin as far as defense prospects go. Jesse Pulkkinen looks promising, but he’s not going to make the team at this point. If anything, it would be pointless to have Pulkkinen sit in the press box most of the year.

So, that leaves two potentially serviceable seventh defenseman options. First, Dennis Cholowski should be the first man up. The isles brought Cholowski back on a one-year deal at league minimum. He didn’t see any NHL action last year. So, it’s a safe bet he’ll start the year at Bridgeport. But if injuries become an issue, Cholowski should get a call-up.

Second, Grant Hutton could get a longer stay at the NHL level if need be. He’s 29 and entering the final year of a three-year deal. As such, the Isles will want to get a look at what he’s got to offer this season. He’ll play most of the year in Bridgeport, but could see some action this season, if only to give some of the regulars a break.

Overall, the Isles’ blue line looks somewhat thin. Perhaps Lou Lamoriello may consider bringing a veteran in on a PTO just to create some healthy competition for the seventh roster spot. As it stands, there shouldn’t be any surprises heading into camp.