NY Islanders Plus/Minus 2023-24: Scott Mayfield with a point to prove in year one of a new contract

On a NY Islanders defensive corps that has been the team's backbone over the past few seasons, Scott Mayfield stands as one of the blue line's most physically imposing figures. Inking a 7-year deal worth $3M a season, Mayfield has committed himself to Long Island until age 37.

Drafted 34th overall in 2011 out of the University of Denver, Mayfield made his mark with the Islanders in the 2014-15 playoffs, brought in specifically to deal with the physicality of Alex Ovechkin in the Isles' first-round matchup with the Washington Capitals. Though Mayfield was effective during that series, he didn't become a regular with the team until 2017-18.

As the Islanders re-signed or extended four players this offseason, along with Pierre Engvall, Mayfield's has been the most controversial. The money is not an issue, especially with the salary cap projected to increase significantly over the next few seasons - but seven years is a lot of time for a bottom-pair defenseman who is 30 years old.

Despite any feelings people may have regarding his contract, Mayfield is a member of this organization for the foreseeable future and will be on the ice on opening night. During a contract year, Mayfield had the best season of his career, posting highs in goals (6), assists (18), points (24), shots (119), and ice-time (21:01). As one of the defense elder statesmen, Mayfield will now be turned to as a leader entering year one of his new deal.

MINUS

Depending on which side of the fence you stand on, Mayfield's contract is a massive minus for loads of people. Social media was full of negative reactions following the announcement of an extension on July 1 regarding its length. Lou Lamoriello, now 80 years old, likely won't be with the organization come the conclusion of Mayfield's deal, possibly playing a factor into why he was willing to go so long. It was perceived Mayfield would receive an offer from another organization over $4M and perhaps nearing $5M. Where other teams weren't willing to go long-term, Lamoriello closed the deal with fewer dollars over a more prolonged period.

While he's one of the bigger, stronger defensemen in the league, Mayfield isn't the most fleet of foot. His style of play doesn't require much straight-line speed, but he's not too effective using his edges either. As dominant skaters have taken over the NHL, smaller, quicker defensemen have become more and more prominent in the game. The Isles' early season game last year at home against the NJ Devils was an example of this, as the Devils forwards skated circles around Mayfield (and essentially the entire team).

Where he lacks in skating, Mayfield makes up for in physicality, clearing the crease, and giving his goaltenders clear sight of the puck. He may not be a mesmerizing player on the ice, but he understands his role and has become an intrugal part of this team.