New York Islanders: Bright Spots Among the Futility

I always get accused by some of my Blog Box brethrens for not looking on the bright side of things. Some people would be hard pressed to come up with positives in the season the New York Islanders are having right now, but NOT ME!!

1 - Mark Striet - Norris Trophy candidate? Well probably not, but I tell you what not many people envisioned the kind of offensive and defensive prowess he has shown. He has been worth every penny of that free agent contract.

2 - Kyle Okposo - We all know he should still be in college, but hey, this is about positives. The kid is really starting to heat up and show he belongs at this level. He is starting to stand out when you watch a game instead of blend in, and that is a great sign for his development.

3 - Doug Weight - This season is considered a resurgence for the veteran. Just got his 1000th point and is well on his way to a point-a-game season. He could net the Islanders a high draft pick if a team gets desperate at the deadline.

4 - Trade possibilities - The Islanders have some chips to deal at the deadline to gain more young talent and draft picks. Guerin, Weight, Witt, Sutton, and Sillinger can all be turned into draft picks if healthy.

5 - John Tavares - He is going No. 1 in the draft next year. There is a decent chance the Islanders could net the N.1 pick. the kid is a franchise player and could be the Islanders version of the saviour. That's until Gary Bettman rigs the draft lottery and he winds up in Toronto.

I know I could not resist a negative jab at our commissioner. These are just a few of the things to watch this season as the half way mark of the season is just around the corner.

Let me know what else you think is positive about this season.

FCT