Mathew Barzal Is Much More of a Plus than a Minus for the New York Islanders

New York Islanders' forward Mathew Barzal could be a top-line forward on any team. He has the right combination of skills and vision, allowing him to become one of the league's best playmakers. With the right teammates, Barzal could top 100 points this upcoming season.

Mathew Barzal Offers Much More Plus than Minus for the New York Islanders

Mathew Barzal on the Plus Side

As the New York Islanders’ 16th overall pick in 2015, Barzal entered the league with high expectations. He delivered big time in his rookie season, notching 85 points, and easily capturing the Calder Trophy.

Since then, it’s been a tale of ups and downs, mainly due to injuries. But when in the lineup, Barzal is a point-per-game player. He’s a pass-first forward, making him one of the best playmakers in the league.

Mathew Barzal has a keen sense for open ice, using his speed as a decoy. However, Barzal hasn’t always played with a legitimate top-line forward. That changed with the arrival of Bo Horvat.

Horvat and Barzal have made a formidable duo, allowing the Isles to deploy a reliable top line. But the absence of a solid left winger has made scoring tough at times. The addition of Anthony Duclair this offseason promises to solve that issue.

If Horvat can drive the play, allowing Barzal to set plays up, and with Duclair crashing the net, the New York Islanders’ top line could be among the NHL’s productive. It wouldn’t be a stretch to consider Mathew Barzal reaching 100 points, while Horvat could easily top 40 goals.

Mathew Barzal Offers Much More Plus than Minus for the New York Islanders

Mathew Barzal on the Plus Side

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