An independent blog on the New York Islanders, the NHL and AHL by a guy from New York.

Sunday, June 23, 2019

The New York Islanders 2019 NHL Entry Draft, Day 2. Review of Rounds 2-7 & UFA Non-Update


Our New York Islanders selected Simon Holmstrom in round one with the 23rd selection on Day one. Per Andrew Gross, "Lou Lamoriello says it's too soon to project whether Simon Holmstrom will play in North American this season or remain in Sweden. Lamoriello says he projects as a top-six forward. Too much of a talent to pass on, per Lamoriello."


Yesterday, on day two, they went back to work.


Round 2, #57 overall (via CGY)
Round 5, #147 overall.
Round 6, #178 overall.
Round 7, #209 overall.



#57    Samuel Bolduc, D, 6'4, 209#, Blainville-Boisbriand Armada of QMJHL

Bolduc, 18, had 9 & 28 for 37 points in 65GP last season, leading the D-core in all three categories with another 2 pts (1 & 1) in the playoffs. He's acquired 51 pts over the last three seasons in Juniors and knows his way around the defensive zone and a staunch, two-way defender. He skates well and can start the rush on a dime with an active first pass out of the zone. He's a big body who likes to play a physical game and battles hard in front of his net. He's also noted to be a good shot-blocker and has been improving year-by-year according to reports.



#147    Reece Newkirk, C – LW, 5'11, 170#, Portland Winterhawks of WHL


The 18-year-old Newkirk had a career-high 59 points (23 & 36) and 5 GWG in 68 games for Portland. He also added 2 assists in the playoffs last season. Size has never been a factor for Newkirk. He plays with a snarl (88 PIMs) and doesn't back down for bigger opposition. He is known for being a smart passer and is relentless on the puck, especially around the net.



#178    Felix Bibeau, C, 6'0, 187#, Rouyn-Noranda Huskies of QMJHL.

Bibeau, 20, had a career-high 69 points (28 & 41) in 63 games with the 2019 Memorial Cup Champion. The alternate captain was tied for the lead with 14 goals (5 GWG and 6 on PP) in 20 playoff games en route to a championship season and was named to a Memorial Cup All-Star. Reports have him defined as a passionate player and confident with the puck. Has smooth hands and a fantastic shot, good vision and hates to lose.



#209    Cole Coskey, RW, 6'1, 201#, Saginaw Spirit of Ontario Hockey League

Coskey, 20, set career-highs in goals (31), assists (32) and points (63) in 52 GP in four seasons with the OHL's Saginaw Spirit. He scored 31 & 32 for 63 pts in 52 games (broken jaw) last season and had 8 points (3 & 5) in 13 OHL playoff games. Overall, Coskey compiled 155 points (72 & 83) in 240 career OHL games, all with Saginaw. He has been called an improving player, year-by-year, and one who works hard to get more responsibility and make more of an impact for his team. On his chance to play in the NHL, Coskey said, "I want it bad."



The Islanders are right back to it today with the open of free agency next Monday. Captain, Anders Lee, and Goaltender, Robin Lehner remain unsigned at this point. Both players have stated they are in talks with the team to the media. With Lee, term seems to be the sticking point. An Apparent difference on 5-6 years in term from the Isles and 7-8 from his camp. Per Brain Compton, Lee - "We want to make sure that everything is done right and it's right for both of us, for both sides. I hope it works out. They're working on it right now." Per Brain Heyman, "Just spoke with UFA-to-be Anders Lee, can start talking to other teams tomorrow: "I never thought it would get to this point, but I guess it's the nature of what this week means." His 1st choice is to stay, hopes it works out. Said talks with #Isles still going. #Islanders #NHL.”


Andrew Gross Tweeted, "Asked about Anders Lee's comment to @bheyman99 today back in New York that Lee is surprised negotiations have gotten to this point (in terms of a lack of progress), Lou Lamoriello said, "I have no response to it. We'll do everything we can." Lamoriello was seen speaking with Lee's agent, Neil Sheehy on the draft floor yesterday, but it looks like Lee will indeed entertain offers from other teams during the free agency period. Lehner was quoted as saying he would take a 1-year deal, just wants to come back and play with New York.


There we no big trades by New York this weekend as fans had hoped. The NHL has raised the salary cap to $81.5M with the Cap floor at $60.2M. Per CapFriendly, the Isles have $20,746,667 in cap space. 


The real clock continues to tick away. And the Islanders are on it. Panarin watch?




Isles Notes:



Per Brian Compton, "Thomas Hickey tells me he hasn't paid any attention to trade rumors. Wants to be in NY … Thomas Hickey is getting married in NY in two weeks. Lives here year-round with soon-to-be wife. Just moved into a new home. "I love playing here and living here."


Per Alan Fuehring, "Youngest son of #SoundTigers head coach goes to New Jersey." Tyce Thompson from Providence was selected with the 96th pick.



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