RALEIGH, N.C. — The Islanders are reflecting on their accomplishments this season, how they overcame a coaching change and a poor standings to reach the playoffs, and how they fought through five straight losses in the first round. It was a matter of pride for humans. Hurricane.
It’s impossible to say for sure at this point if management decides that’s enough to resume another year, but this is a juncture that would make it difficult for fans to reunite the band. At least the base feels like it.
Eight regulars, including longtime core members Matt Martin and Cal Clutterbuck, are on expiring contracts.
None of these eight players are in the top-six forward group or top-four defenseman, but that alone could make this team look different next season.
The question is to what extent, and the answer depends on whether owner Scott Malkin and general manager Lou Lamoriello feel the same way about this season as the players in the locker room.
“Every year there are ups and downs,” Kyle Palmieri said after the season ended in a 6-3 loss to the Hurricanes. “This time has felt higher and lower than ever before. It’s been a bumpy journey for many in this room. But realistically, I’m really proud of everyone here. We fought hard. We made the playoffs and had a chance to play for the Stanley Cup.”
Considering the situation the Islanders were in a month ago, it’s impressive how far they’ve come. However, not winning a playoff series for the third consecutive season is unacceptable considering they are expected to compete at a much higher level.
The Islanders have too many long-term contracts to throw them all away. But there is a clear opportunity this offseason to make the most significant changes this team has seen in a long time.
It doesn’t take long for players to figure out what they would choose if given the chance.
“I’m proud of all the players here,” Jean-Gabriel Pageau said. “Everyone played with heart, competed and gave us a chance to win almost every night. Just hockey. Things didn’t go our way.”
But that’s not for them to decide.
The spotlight is now on Lamoriello, Malkin and coach Patrick Roy. They had three months to work on this roster and form an informed opinion on all 23 players.
Losing to Carolina in the first round a year ago had no real impact. It’s hard to think it’s the same.
