Islander's Options Abundant for Third Line Following Departure of Derick Brassard
New York Islanders Face Third Line Conundrum Ahead of 2021 NHL Season
As the 2021 NHL season approaches, the New York Islanders are facing a significant question mark – the composition of their third line. With several key players departing and a limited budget, the team is looking inward to find solutions.
Mathew Barzal, a key player on the top lines, and Matt Martin, who retired in June, are no longer options for the third line. Andy Greene, Cory Schneider, and Derick Brassard, who left the team or were traded away, are also out of the equation. This leaves the Islanders with a void to fill.
While the exact third-line combinations may vary game-to-game, typical possibilities for the 2021 season include Casey Cizikas (often a center on the third line), Leo Komarov, and other depth forwards. Young players like Kieffer Bellows (22) and Oliver Wahlstrom (20) are expected to make strong pushes to make the big club this year.
However, the Islanders failed to sign Anthony Duclair and Andreas Athanasiou, who could have provided scoring depth. The composition beyond Pageau on the third line remains uncertain, with the team considering giving opportunities to the young players.
The Islanders' third line roster could include new faces due to the shortened season. Notable deals include the trade of Devon Toews for cap relief and the unofficial retirement of Johnny Boychuk. Other departures include veteran forward Matt Martin, defenseman Andy Green, and goaltender Cory Schneider.
Derick Brassard, who left the team in previous seasons, has signed with the Arizona Coyotes. The Islanders also didn't manage to sign a marquee free agent, missing out on Mike Hoffman and never having a chance with Taylor Hall.
Despite these challenges, Wahlstrom has shown promising form. While on loan with AIK in the second-tier professional league in Sweden this fall, he posted eight points (four goals, four assists) in 10 games. His strong performance could potentially secure him a spot on the third line.
The lack of cap space limits the Islanders' ability to make significant roster changes. Nevertheless, they are determined to find the right combination to strengthen their third line and compete in the upcoming season.
The New York Islanders' third line could potentially consist of players like Casey Cizikas, Leo Komarov, and youngsters Kieffer Bellows and Oliver Wahlstrom. However, the absence of signed free agents such as Anthony Duclair and Andreas Athanasiou leaves the third line composition uncertain, with the team considering giving young players chances.
