Eyes on Isles Podcast: A Retrospective
On the latest edition of the Eyes on Isles Podcast, Joe Buono (@IslesFix) and Andy Francess (@AndyFrancess) share their thoughts on the Islanders being eliminated from the Carolina Hurricanes in six games as Joe shares the sights and sounds from the stunned arena.
Plus, key takeaways from "clean out" day, a look at what UFAs will be back, and Andy asks are goalies becoming the running backs of the NHL?
Days removed from the Islanders 2-1 OT loss in Game 6 at UBS Arena to the Carolina Hurricanes, Joe and Andy talk about their feelings about the series and season that were similar in many ways. Unlike prior first round exits in 2003, 04 and 07, the series was there for the taking in a wide open Eastern Conference and was a missed opportunity for a group who's window closes a bit more each season.
They discuss Ilya Sorokin's good but not great series in goal and how this season's playoff has shown that the team in front of the goalie is as important, if not more than having the best goaltender in the series. Sorokin is an UFA after next season, and while it seems like an obvious decision to extend him, the Islanders can't afford to pay a cap number that adversely impacts the rest of their ability to construct the roster.
Plus, we share our thoughts on the list of unrestricted free agents, why Scott Mayfield may be the most difficult to replace, and the hope that Zach Parise returns for a third season. Lastly, Joe and Andy share their predictions as to what happens with Lou Lamoriello and Lane Lambert and whether both will be back next season.