Pierre Engvall could be on the outside looking in for the New York Islanders

New York Islanders winger Pierre Engvall was a healthy scratch for Monday night’s game against the Philadelphia Flyers.

It’s training camp. So, nothing to see here, right?

Well, there’s much more than meets the eye with Engvall. Engvall has been the subject of criticism for his overall play. Last season, Engvall chipped in ten goals and 28 points in 74 games. Not bad for a bottom-six player.

But here’s where much of the criticism comes from: The New York Islanders signed Engvall to a seven-year deal with a $3 million AAV. The deal was widely questioned, especially considering the term. Perhaps it was just Lou Lamoriello wanting to lock Engvall into a “cheap” contract before Engvall became a highly productive player worth much more.

Thus far, the deal hasn’t worked out. Of course, it’s still early in Engvall’s deal. He’s entering just the second year of the contract. But at 28 years of age, how much more room for improvement does Engvall have?

Could Engvall still blossom into a 40 or 50-point player? Could there be a 20-goal season on the horizon for him? Possibly.

Now, looking at Monday night’s lineup, Engvall was missing. When coach Patrick Roy was asked about Engvall, he dismissed comments by stating that it was a training camp decision.

Perhaps the most telling comments were Roy’s lack of defense for Engvall. Roy stated that Engvall has had an “okay camp” and has “nothing negative to say” about Engvall.

Taking it one step further, it almost seemed as though Roy wanted to dodge the question. Perhaps there really is nothing to see. But there is a compelling reason why Engvall could be on the outside looking in this season.

New York Islanders prospects pushing for roster spots this year

The main reason for this discussion is the emergence of several prospects at camp this season. Let’s start with Liam Foudy.

Foudy has looked good during the preseason. He doesn’t seem out of place and has provided solid offensive play. Moreover, he hasn’t made any mistakes that could be singled out.

Meanwhile, Julien Gauthier has played well with Foudy. Gauthier looks like a bottom-six player. If given an opportunity, Gauthier could become a serviceable third-line player. Could Gauthier take Engvall’s spot on the third line? It’s a possibility.

Then, there’s Fredrik Karlstrom. Roy has lauded Karlstrom’s play on several occasions. Karlstrom could turn into a solid fourth-line center or even jump into the third-line. Karlstrom’s solid all-around game could help him make the team out of camp this season.

Additionally, Maxim Tsyplakov looks destined for the second line. With Simon Holmstrom also getting a look in the top six, there are few spots open for Engvall to move up.

Ultimately, the safe bet is that Engvall starts the season on the third line with JG Pageau and Anders Lee. However, Engvall could have a short leash. If he struggles out of the gate, Foudy, Gauthier, or Karlstrom could take over his spot.

Who knows, Roy may even experiment with Kyle MacLean on the third line. Anything is possible in Roy’s mind.