As we approach game 82 of what has undoubtedly been a nightmare season for the New York Islanders, it’s worth reflecting on how it all began: October 10th, 2024, the home opener against the Utah Hockey Club. Fueled by optimism and offseason additions, the arena was electric—fans were buzzing, players looked locked in, and the energy was palpable. Yet, that night marked the start of a difficult and disappointing campaign for the Isles.
Let’s break down the numbers from this year’s season:
Season Overview
- Current Record: 35–34–12
- Home Record: 19–17–5
- Road Record: 16–17–7
- Goals For / Against: 223 / 254
- Head Coach: Patrick Roy (first full season after interim role in 2023–24)
- Key Additions: Anthony Duclair (signed from Tampa Bay), Maxim Tsyplakov (signed from KHL)
Power Play
- Power Play Percentage (PP%): 11.45%
- Power Play Goals (PPG): 19
- Power Play Opportunities (PPO): 166
- League Rank: 32nd (last)
Penalty Kill
- Penalty Kill Percentage (PK%): 71.23%
- Power Play Goals Against (PPGA): 42
- Times Shorthanded (PK): 146
- League Rank: 31st
Despite a roster with a bit more promise on paper than previous years, the Islanders struggled to find consistency in key moments. Long scoring droughts, defensive lapses, and special teams inefficiencies plagued the club throughout the year. The power play, ranking dead last in the league, often stalled momentum, while the penalty kill was unable to provide a reliable safety net. Injuries and streaky performances further compounded the groups issues, leaving fans frustrated and players searching for answers. Even with standout efforts from veterans like Bo Horvat and flashes of potential from younger talent, such as Simon Holmström, the team never quite clicked the way many had hoped.
One of the few bright spots this season was the emergence of Simon Holmström. Stepping up when the team needed depth scoring the most, Holmström proved he could be a reliable contributor at both ends of the ice. Finishing the year with career highs in goals (20), assists (25), and points (45), he brought much needed energy and versatility to the Islanders’ middle-six forward group. His development into a dependable two-way player was one of the more encouraging signs for the future of the franchise, and it’s clear he’s earned a larger role heading into next season.
Another major storyline this season was the departure of longtime Islander Brock Nelson. A cornerstone in the lineup since being drafted in 2010, Nelson had been a consistent offensive presence and a steady leader throughout his tenure with the team. As the trade deadline approached the front office made the difficult decision to move the veteran forward. Nelson was traded to the Colorado Avalanche in exchange for a second-round pick and promising young forward prospect Calum Ritchie. While it was a bittersweet moment for fans, the move signals a shift toward a younger core and opens the door for fresh talent to step in. If there is one thing that is for sure… its that Nelson’s impact on the franchise won’t be forgotten—his professionalism, scoring touch, and commitment to the Isles, made him a fan favorite and respected figure in the locker room.
What is next for the Isles???
Looking ahead, the Islanders are shifting their focus to the future. Calum Ritchie is someone fans are really excited about. With his playmaking ability and hockey IQ, he’s got the potential to step into a key role next season. Then there’s Marc Gatcomb, who really impressed after being called up midseason. Gatcomb brought a much-needed edge to the bottom six, using his physical play and smart positioning to carve out a spot in the lineup.
Of course, Simon Holmström is another one to watch. After a breakout year, he’s on track to continue his development into a reliable two-way player. If he can keep improving, he could be a key part of the Islanders’ future.
Then there’s Cole Eiserman. He’s a name you have likely heard a lot about all season while fans looked for optimism. Known for his elite goal-scoring ability, Eiserman could be exactly what the Isles need, to inject some offensive punch moving forward.
While Lou Lamoriello’s leadership has provided stability, it’s becoming clear that a change at the top is absolutley necessary. His approach, which worked in the past, hasn’t resulted in sustained success, particularly in terms of building a balanced, high-scoring team. The lack of depth scoring and questionable roster decisions raise concerns about the direction of the franchise. As the Islanders start to develop a younger core, it may be time for a fresh perspective to better align with the team’s future and long-term success.
Conclusion:
With GM Lou Lamoriello publicly stating his intention to make the team “younger,” there’s cautious optimism among the fanbase. Free agent signings, summer trades, and team-friendly contracts could all play a role in shaping the next era of Islanders hockey. While there’s still plenty of uncertainty heading into the offseason, there’s also a renewed sense of hope. A new core is forming, and for the first time in a while, fans have something to look forward to.
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