What Does Parise Bring?

Many reports are saying Zach has signed with the Islanders. If the rumors are true, Parise coming to the Islanders is like the prodigal son coming home.  He is a perfect fit for three reasons. 

1. Leadership

The Isles really need a leader with some talent. Parise will become an instant leader. He will do everything that is asked of him and more. Parise will help Barzal develop his game to become a complete player. No one can question his heart. He may not be the same player, but he has the same spirit. 

2. Isles Powerplay

Zach Parise can still stick handle with the best of them. His stickhandling skills will not diminish with age. Zach will be a welcome addition to a powerplay that lacks skill and imagination. Barzal will become twice as effective. 

3. Added offense in the bottom six

The Isles lack offensive punch. Zach brings the offensive playmaker the Isles so desperately need. Zach and Pageau on the third line will be a nice touch; I look forward to seeing them work together. 

Conclusion

Zach Parise is an excellent addition to the Islanders. He will become a fan favorite this season and just might be the missing piece of the puzzle. 

Stranded on an Island

 

Everyone knows the position the Islanders are in. They have roughly $3.9 million in cap with one more player to sign. In most cases, that would be doable, but in this player's case—yeah, not so much. That player is Matthew Barzal, and even at a home discount, there no chance he signs for that.   

This much we know: the buyout option is out the window. The Islanders are shopping Boychuck all over the world. It isn't that Boychuck can't play; teams are balking at his cap hit. They have a similar problem with Mr. Ladd. What makes his contract particularly troublesome is that it is a bonus-driven contract that makes it almost impossible to buy him out.  

The Islanders are down to one option, which is a trade. They have options. Their next best chance at trade bait is probably Bailey. Teams that need a playmaker could use the forward. He has a good rep as a penalty killer and teams love his skating. I have also been told that teams like his versatility; he can also play centre. Cal Clutterbuck is another asset the Isles could deal. Cal is a solid fourth-liner and penalty killer. Again, the main obstacle is his cap. Clubs would be more willing to take on his cap than Boychuck's. The Isles could waive Leo Komarov with Boychuck and Ladd. With the cap they have left, they might be able to sign Barzal. 

Last Word

My biggest beef when it comes to the Islanders is Josh Ho-Sang. They have to play the kid if they want to show him off to the other NHL clubs and get something of value for him. The Isles are not going to use him, so they might as well try to get something for him.  

I want to thank my friends Thomas Boyle and David Weintraub for their help with this blog's material. 

Randy.