Metropolitan Division Preview: Scouting the New York Islanders

Mar 7, 2015; Sunrise, FL, USA; New York Islanders center

(91) is congratulated by teammates after his goal against the Florida Panthers. Mandatory Credit: Robert Mayer-USA TODAY Sports

Hands down, the Islanders best player last year was John Tavares.

As captain, he played in all 82 regular season games. He registered 86 points, which was the most on his team by (30) points. Also, he was one point behind Dallas Stars captain Jamie Benn for the Art Ross Trophy.

Tavares led the team in goals (38), assists (48), power play goals (13) and points (31), shots on goal (278), and game-winning goals (8).

He does have two blemishes: average ice time of 20:40 was third best on the team with a 52.2% success rate in faceoffs.

Sheesh, couldn’t do better, J.T.? Just kidding.

In terms of goals and assists, Tavares was in double digits clear of his nearest teammate in each. That’s how much of offensive weapon he was to the Islanders.

Without him in the lineup, the team could have struggled to get in the postseason.

Next: Offseason Additions