Part 4/13:
In stark contrast, the New York Islanders have faced a tumultuous year. Despite a promising start replacing their coach, the Islanders have struggled to find their identity, ending their playoff hopes with a disheartening first-round exit. The absence of necessary changes in roster depth and an underwhelming performance in special teams have led to frustration among fans.
Particularly alarming is their dismal standing in both power-play and penalty-kill stats, landing them at the bottom of the NHL leaderboard. Their inability to adapt and execute basic structures has been apparent, leaving them vulnerable and predictable. As they head into 2025, without significant intervention or changes, the Islanders look set for another difficult season.