"For years under Lamoriello, the Islanders played a physical game, but one that lacked a high-octane offensive output from most of their players. If they didn't show up defensively, it was tough for the Isles' scorers to make up the dividends, and it led to stagnation following a few successful seasons. Add the "no facial hair" policy to the bad contracts that routinely put the Islanders' backs against the cap wall while mortgaging the future for an aging core, and the result was an underachieving hockey team."
"Under Mathieu Darche, the Islanders already look like a team that's retooling in a better, younger direction. You can't say enough about Matthew Schaefer, Darche's first ever draft pick, and the same goes for newcomers like Emil Heineman, or Matthew Barzal's resurgence. You won't see an older and slower hockey team under Darche, and with the youngsters looking impressive so far this season, expect more turnover, but for the better."
"That's going to create newfound success on Long Island, and while there have been obvious growing pains, the Isles' emerging identity will keep forcing opponents to adjust to this quicker style featuring more highlight-reel scoring."
The Islanders transitioned away from Lou Lamoriello’s older, physical, defensively-dependent approach toward a faster, more offensive style. Early-season scoring improved, with 40 goals ranking 13th in the league. Prior policies and burdensome contracts contributed to cap constraints and stagnation around an aging core. Mathieu Darche initiated a retooling focused on youth and speed, exemplified by Matthew Schaefer, Emil Heineman, and Matthew Barzal’s resurgence. The front office plans gradual turnover as veterans are replaced by younger players. The evolving identity emphasizes quicker play and more highlight-reel scoring, forcing opponents to adjust and promising future success.
Read at Eyes On Isles
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