Mar 27, 2021; Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA; New York Islanders center Mathew Barzal (13) scores a goal against Pittsburgh Penguins goaltender Tristan Jarry (35) during the second period at PPG Paints Arena. Mandatory Credit: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
I don’t think anyone would question Mathew Barzal being the best player on the Islanders. With that being said, that doesn’t exempt him from any criticism. After scoring nine goals and having 22 points through the team’s first 24 games, he went ice cold.
It’s uncharacteristic for Mathew Barzal to struggle the way that he has over this last stretch of games.