Islanders’ Adam Pelech Thriving After Injury-Laden Seasons
VANCOUVER, British Columbia — Patrick Roy playfully suggested we should knock on wood, given how discussing health at this stage in the season can be a bit precarious.
Adam Pelech managed to complete the 2021-22 season without sidelining himself, a noteworthy feat that coincidentally marked his first All-Star selection.
Leading up to Monday’s Game 49 against the Canucks, Pelech has impressively avoided injuries for 48 games. This stability is setting him up for potentially his best season since he was last fully healthy.
“It makes a huge difference,” Pelech remarked after practice on Sunday at Rogers Arena. “Missing time because of injury is tough. You’re sidelined, doing rehab, while your teammates are progressing every day. It’s really challenging to sit out.”
Pelech has faced his share of misfortune over recent seasons, yet he noted that being injury-free this year has been a pivotal change. However, his point tally remains modest, as he has only racked up seven points. But defensively, he’s performing at his usual high level.
According to the latest data from Evolving Hockey, his expected goals percentage sits at 52.79, leading the Islanders’ defense and ranking just behind Ryan Pulock in goals per 60 minutes on the ice.
Pelech is also a key player in revamping the team’s once lackluster penalty kill, which has transformed into a top-10 unit this season.
“We’re definitely well-coached,” Pelech commented regarding the penalty kills. “The coaches have developed strong game plans. We just need to focus on execution and benefiting from great goaltending.”
Ironically, both Pelech and Pulock are experiencing standout seasons, yet they haven’t been regular partners. Historically, they formed a tight duo during the Islanders’ playoff run with Barry Trotz. They truly understand each other’s gameplay.
Nevertheless, Pulock has partnered with Matthew Schaefer since November, while Pelech has been alongside Tony DeAngelo. This dynamic seems to benefit all four players, creating two primary offensive defense pairs alongside those more defensively minded.
“Tony and I have really built our chemistry,” Pelech added. “He’s an incredibly smart player. It definitely eases the game for me. I believe we’re doing well together. I’m sticking to my strengths, especially on the defensive end and during penalty kills.”
As this series of games progresses, the focus on defense has intensified, especially with the absence of star center Bo Horvat. Although they’ve held their ground, Saturday’s 4-2 defeat against the Flames was particularly disappointing on the road.
“Our defensive core, including Pulock, Scherff, and Perry, has been solid,” Roy noted. “Tony D has been a great addition, and Perry’s presence allows Tony to push forward on offense.”
“Honestly, anyone playing with Perry is bound to succeed due to his skill and professionalism. It’s great to have him on our team,” Roy concluded.
