Islanders poised to steal a page from the Avalanche's playbook this season
Photo credit: Isaiah J. Downing / Imagn Images
The New York Islanders are reportedly preparing to adopt elements of the Colorado Avalanche's succesfull playbook as they head into the upcoming NHL season, signalling a potential shift in strategy.
The Islanders jumped straight into special teams drills at training camp, with players already taking note of a new approach under assistant coach Ray Bennett.
Islanders set to steal a page from the Avalanche's playbook.
Ray Bennett served as an assistant coach for the Avalanche from 2017 to 2025, specializing in the power play, before parting ways with the team in May 2025 and joining the New York Islanders.
Here's what Islanders defenseman Tony DeAngelo said after a recent practice...
«Yeah, I mean that's exactly what it is - just a fresh perspective. He's giving us some looks from his time in Colorado. They had a lot of success with their entries and puck movement, so hopefully we can piggyback off that. We know we have the talent to do it, it's just about execution.» -DeAngelo
The Islanders' forward group featured familiar faces like Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat, along with new addition Jonathan Drouin, all working to stabilize a power play that contributed to last season's playoff miss.
Players noted that early chemistry will be critical.
«To me, entries are the most important part. Once we get set up, I think with the five guys we have - and even the second unit - we'll make plays. Today was a good start.» -DeAngelo
One of the new faces turning heads is Russian winger Maxim Shabanov. Though he brings valuable KHL experience, he joked that his Russian language skills are still pretty limited.
On the blue line, Matthew Schaefer, the Islanders' No. 1 overall pick, impressed with his composure at the point.
«He's super impressive. Deceptive, walks the line, head up, moves both sides, can shoot. At this point, I don't need to see any more practice - I just want to watch him play games.» -DeAngelo
With added speed, patience, and new skill in the lineup, the Islanders hope their revamped power play transforms from a weakness into a strength.
| POLL | ||
SEPTEMBRE 24 | 16 ANSWERS Islanders poised to steal a page from the Avalanche's playbook this season Will the Islanders make the playoffs this upcoming NHL season? | ||
| yes | 2 | 12.5 % |
| no | 14 | 87.5 % |
| List of polls | ||
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