The New York Islanders have locked up center Mathew Barzal long term and some question if he’ll be worth the gamble.
The team announced today that it was an eight-year deal and it’s reportedly worth $9.15 million.
“I absolutely love the fans here,” Barzal said after his extension broke the news.
“They’re seriously so unique. They’re one of a kind. Everyone is such a die-hard Islander fan.”
The 25-year-old extension will take effect after this season ends.
That means he will be signed until he’s 34.
But the question is will he be worth it?
Well, let’s first take a look at his performance so far.
Since winning Calder Memorial Trophy (honoring the season’s best rookie) and scoring 85 points in 82 games in his first year in the NHL, Barzal hasn’t been a point-per-game player or better.
In his previous season, the British Columbian native registered 59 points in 73 games (0.80).
Also, advanced data shows that he has been declining over the past few seasons.
So, some argue that this is a big investment by the Islanders that may not work out.
That said, by the eyeball – the talent is obvious.
Not many players can skate like Barzal and weave around defensemen quite like him.
Also, keep in mind this could be the reason why Barry Trotz was fired by the team despite the success he had in such a short period of time.
Now it remains to be seen if new coach head coach Lane Lambert can restore Barzal and put together a system that allows players like him to be more successful.
But to realistically do that, the Islanders may need another competent winger to help him.
Some of the top wingers on the Islanders include Anders Lee, Kyle Palmieri and Zach Parise.
None of those players are exactly Alex Ovechkin or Gordie Howe.
That’s a problem that general manager Lou Lamoriello has failed to resolve.
But those are all questions.
And right now, the deal looks like an investment so it remains to be seen how it plays out.
