Thomas Hickey reacts to NY Islanders F Mathew Barzal snub on NHL Network list

New York Islanders All-Star Mathew Barzal started the transition from center to winger upon the arrival of Bo Horvat to Long Island in February 2023. After their time together was cut short due to Barzal suffering a knee injury, he started training camp on Horvat's wing and remained there for the majority of the season. The result was arguably the best all-around season of his career.

Nevertheless, despite Barzal setting a career-high in goals (23) and reaching 80 points for the first time since his Calder Trophy rookie year, he was left off the NHL Network's list of the "Top 20 Wings Right Now" earlier this week. These lists are subjective, and other fanbases have taken issue with their star being left off. For example, New Jersey Devil fans are upset about Jesper Bratt being omitted. Vancouver's Brock Boeser would be another with a case.

Thomas Hickey reacts to NY Islanders F Mathew Barzal snub on NHL Network list

No one is arguing that anyone in the Top 10 or 15 should be taken off, but Alex Ovechkin is no longer a consensus Top 2- winger. Has Travis Konecny proved enough long enough? Brad Marchand is 36 and had 67 last season. Is he better than Barzal or Bratt at this stage of his career?

Thomas Hickey, who serves as an analyst/studio host on the Isles' telecasts and also contributes to the NHL Network, made the case for Barzal on social media. "Although traditionally a C, Barzal had his BEST season last year. His first full year at wing. Defensive game was impressive. Led the league in takeaways," Hickey posted on X. " For those who got to see him nightly, there’s little doubt to whether he cracks the top 20."

A repeat of lasts season would be a successful one for Barzal, but as he is firmly entrenched in his prime of his career, there is still the feeling that there is still a next level he can reach. If he does that, there should be no question he cracks this list next year.