Three Forward Depth Options for the New York Islanders Must Look Into

The New York Islanders’ top six looks set for this upcoming season. The projected top line of Anthony Duclair, Bo Horvat, and Mathew Barzal looks solid.  

The second line boasts tremendous chemistry with Kyle Palmieri and Brock Nelson. The only question mark is the projected addition of Maxim Tsyplakov. However, if Tsyplakov should fail to gel on the second unit, Anders Lee could jump back into the mix.

With the top six looking good on paper, the question marks surround the New York Islanders’ bottom six. The two locks seem to be Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Pierre Engvall on the third line. Assuming Lee joins them, the third like looks set. 

But what about the checking line?  

Casey Cizikas is solid while youngsters Simon Holmstrom and Kyle MacLean look like decent additions. But then again, there’s always the need for depth, particularly as injuries hit the team. 

So, let’s take a look at three depth forward options the Isles’ can bring in on cheap contracts to boost the club’s overall bottom-six depth. 

Three Forward Depth Options for the New York Islanders  

James van Riemsdyk 

I’ve been a fan of JVR for a long time. He’s always been a one-dimensional player. But he can score even at 35. Last season, he was a productive bottom-six winger with the Boston Bruins, netting 11 goals and 38 points in 71 games. 

JVR could slide into the third line, especially if Lee jumps back to the top six. While not the fastest skater, JVR does provide a strong net-front presence, pouncing on loose pucks around the net. 

The best part is that JVR’s cap hit last season was around $1 million, according to PuckPedia. So, he could come to the Isles on a very team-friendly deal. 

Blake Wheeler 

Wheeler had a tough season with the New York Rangers last year. He had a decent season before a significant injury derailed the rest of his year. While he came back in the playoffs, he had little to show. 

Still, Wheeler produced 21 points in 54 games for the Rangers last season. Assuming he’s healthy, the 37-year-old could play a significant role on the fourth line. He’s still gritty and provides veteran leadership akin to the style that Patrick Roy preaches. 

Wheeler’s $800K cap hit last season was affordable. As such, a similar cap hit this upcoming season would allow the Isles to give Wheeler another shot at a full-time NHL role. 

Tyler Johnson 

Johnson could be an intriguing bottom-six center for the New York Islanders. The 34-year-old registered 31 points in 67 games for the Chicago Blackhawks last season.  

However, it’s worth pointing out that the Hawks are a rebuilding team. So, inserting Johnson into a playoff contender could elevate his overall game.  

The main sticking point could be Johnson’s cap hit. Last season, his cap hit was $5 million. While he won’t be making that much this upcoming season, a cap hit in the $2 million range could work. 

The Isles could play Johnson predominantly as a fourth-line center, potentially jumping up to the third line if injuries play a role on the team.