Have you noticed? There's a different attitude around the NHL press when it comes to the NY Islanders. Can we call it respect? Perhaps. Respect is something that is earned, and John Tavares and this roster of Islanders have done everything they could to do just that. It hasn't been easy.
It's been a long road, and the work has been hard. At times it didn't even look like it was possible. But tonight, for the first time in years, the New York Islanders were not part of the NHL Draft Lottery. It was always a very uncomfortable position for general manager Garth Snow. He never showed up for the cameras. He just stuck to his guns with how he wanted to build the team.
One of the most important qualities he looked for was "character." That could be the reason why some of the fan favorites from past years are NOT part of this team. It was a painful process. The post season 8th seed berth may not be the ultimate payoff, but it's a start.
I was happy to hear reporters all day on SiriusXMNHL talking about the first round series against the mighty Penguins as a potentially excellent series. Not a cake walk for the Penguins because, as E.J. Rhadek reminded, "The Islanders can score goals."
So while the Penguins are top heavy with talent, managing that talent may actually be difficult. The Islanders have worked hard at knowing their role and how they have to play. They've been successful at it.
It's nice to hear the media acknowledge them -- for a change.
New York Islanders Blogger • 
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