The Blame Game, Frustrations, and Expectations

There's plenty to blame to go around this season for the New York Islanders. You can easily blame their lackluster powerplay, which was unimaginative and unsuccessful all season. You could almost predict what the Islanders would do every time they entered the powerplay. Additionally, the team made critical errors during crucial moments of play. These areas must be addressed for the Islanders to improve next season. 

So what do we do now? Do we keep Lou, or do we shop for a general manager? While we're at it, is Mr. Lambert's job in danger? Everyone knows when things go wrong, the easiest solution is to fire the coach. Lambert doesn't deserve all the blame in this case. Bear with me. Lambert can only work with what he has. But when Lou tried to help, it didn't work. The Islanders have made it clear that Lou and Lambert are staying. I just don't know if this is the right move for the team.

We know we can't trade every player on the team. The Islanders have some of the pieces to the puzzle on this team. Barzal and Horvat are a deadly combination. A lot of fans are raining on Horvat's parade. They are not happy with his performance. I asked my source for all things Islanders, Paul Kreischer, for his opinion. "Horvat and Barzal have not played enough games together to show that they can play together for a full season." I am with Paul. We need to give Barzal and Horvat time to become the team's leaders.

The New York Islanders need to beef up their second line for next season to provide more support for Barse and his scoring capabilities. Nelson continues to improve and continues to be a 30-goal score, no matter who they put him with. I would like to see the team add a sniper to go with Nelson, giving the New York Islanders two scoring lines. I'm hoping, of course, that the New York Islanders go after Tarasanko. If the Rangers don't sign him, he will easily be the top free agent available. If not him, the Islanders have to consider bringing in another forward. 

Lastly, what about Mayfield? Should we sign him? From what I've heard, Mayfield will be asking for a salary of around three to four million dollars a year. If this number is close to the floor, the Isles may let him go and instead use the off-season to address their bottom pairing.

The team has some pieces to the puzzle, but changes must be made to improve their performance next season.

You can reach Paul at twitter @P_Kreischer