Ever since being the first ever player granted “special exemption” status to play in the OHL at just 15 years old, the hockey world has awaited the arrival of John Tavares, Elite NHL Centre.
Well folks, it’s early in the season, but based on the returns so far, we may finally be seeing him take that next step. Now in his third NHL Season, Tavares is showing the All-World skill that made him the coveted 1st overall pick of the 2009 NHL Draft.
Tavares has put up 8 points (5 goals and 3 assists) in his last two games, leading the Islanders victories to over the Tampa Bay Lightning and New York Rangers.
It seems that the Islanders and Tavares are both growing at the same time, and with Al Montoya finally showing signs of being a capable NHL starter. With a forward core that includes Kyle Okposo, Michael Grabner, and Matt Moulson along with Tavares, and with a healthy Mark Streit leading the blue line, it is my prediction that the Islanders are bottom feeders no more.
They may not be ready to get into the playoffs just yet… but these Islanders will be in the fight for a spot. They are no longer a bottom feeder, and are a dangerous opponent who can beat any NHL team on any given night. A great deal of their new-found swagger is due to the emergence of their next Superstar John Tavares.
Now if only he could do something about building a new arena for them to play in.
