Clearly, the New York Islanders lost one of their best players, as well as the face of the franchise in John Tavares this summer. While that psychological sting still exists, there are many things to feel good about regarding the Islanders.
Saying the Isles upgraded at the head coach and General Manager spots is a huge understatement. The Isles went from an inexperienced coach in Doug Weight to one of the game’s best in Barry Trotz. The Isles also went from the maligned Garth Snow to one of the all-time hockey GM’s in Lou Lamoriello.