Notes from New York Islanders training camp Day 14

New York Islanders coach Patrick Roy spoke to the media following Thursday’s practice. Roy addressed several key issues heading into Friday night’s preseason game against the New York Rangers.

In particular, Roy focused on key aspects related to the team’s depth and goaltending situation. So, let’s get into the details.

Key notes from New York Islanders training camp Day 14

No timeline for Sorokin’s return

Ilya Sorokin practiced for the first time this season. While the news was certainly encouraging, Roy was careful not to give a specific timeline for Sorokin’s return. Reporters asked if Sorokin could see action on Friday night. However, Roy was adamant about taking things one day at a time with Sorokin.

Wahlstrom to get a look on the fourth line

Roy discussed the fourth line at length. Specifically, Roy hinted that Kyle MacLean and Casey Cizikas are set on the fourth line. As such, a spot remains open, one that Oliver Wahlstrom could get a crack at. Roy praised Wahlstrom for improving his “compete level.” Roy added that Wahlstrom could add more scoring on that line given his good shot and skill level.

Roy likes the D

Roy stated that there are eight defensemen he likes on the team. To start, Alexander Romanov and Noah Dobson got kudos from Roy due to their growth as leaders on the ice. Roy stated that he expects both blueliners to grow this season as team leaders.

As Ryan Pulock and Adam Pelech, Roy was emphatic about his satisfaction with where both defenders’ current development at camp. Most importantly, Roy feels confident that Pulock and Pelech can stay healthy throughout the season.

Roy went on to discuss the third pairing, underscoring how Scott Mayfield and Mike Reilly complement one another. Roy highlighed how Reilly is a good puck-moving defenseman while Mayfield is a solid defender. As such, Roy feels that the bottom pairing has the potential to play a key role moving forward.

Depth defense also pivotal for the Isles

The roles of Dennis Cholowski and Grant Hutton depend on their consistent play. Roy was clear about how much he liked both blueliners’ consistency throughout camp, making them key pieces of the team’s overall puzzle.

Based on Roy’s comments, it seems the odd man out on the blue line is Samuel Bolduc. When asked about Bolduc, Roy commented on his seeming lack of consistency. When reporters pressed on Bolduc’s destination for this season, Roy stated that it was up to Lou Lamoriello to decide who stays and who goes once the season begins.

Thus, it seems that Bolduc could be squeezed out of a job this season unless he can turn things around moving forward.