On Monday we looked at the Islander forward with the most to prove this season. Today we continue with part two of our three part “Under pressure” series as we examine the Islander defenseman with the most to prove in 13/14.

There is a couple different ways one could go on this issue. Clearly replacing departed blueliner Mark Streit is of the utmost importance however that roster spot should go to either rookie Matt Donovan or Calvin de Haan. Whomever wins that spot will not be expected to put up gaudy offensive numbers, rather they will be expected to play sound defense and contribute as much as they can.

This lead me to one name on the Islanders roster; Andrew MacDonald. MacDonald has exceeded expatiations considering he was drafted 160th overall in the 2006 draft. Since joining New York he has worked with Travis Hamonic as the Islanders work horses logging valuable minutes on the blue line and forming the teams “shut down pairing.”

MacDonald is a sound defenseman who while not overall physical does a good job breaking up plays. Teamed with Hamonic they have become the best shot blocking duo on the island and can be counted on to play against the opponents top offensive players. He is a sound skater who has the ability to jump in the play offensively.

Entering this season MacDonald’s role will need to be expanded offensively. It is time to see if Andrew can contribute more offensively as the Islanders will be counting on MacDonald to find the score sheet more often. While in Bridgeport with the Sound Tigers; Macdonald was contributing consistently and quarterbacking their first pairing power play unit. What stood out the most is his willingness to join the rush and take chances in the offensive zone.

Somewhere along the way that did not transfer to the NHL. MacDonald has the ability he just has to be more willing to expand his role in the attacking zone. Andrew is entering the final year of his contract and Islander brass must be able to evaluate what MacDonald is to this team long term. Is he a second pairing defenseman? Can his role be expanded? These are questions that will need to be answered this season as a cavalcade of young Islander d-men will be chomping at the bit to win roster spots.

With so much talent on the horizon at the defensive position Macdonald may be pushed out by one of the highly touted prospects but for the time being he serves as a valuable member of this year’s Islanders’ team. That’s what makes this season so critical. We need to see if MacDonald is a place holder to a young prospect or a piece of the core that should be locked up for years to come. I would like to see MacDonald take more chances and join the rush in the attacking zone when it allows. With Travis Hamonic by his side I feel that MacDonald can pick his spots more and hopefully rack up some much needed points from the blueline.

On Sunday our “Under Pressure” series will conclude as we examine the goaltender with the most to prove for the 2013-2014 season. For more on all things hockey please follow me on Twitter and Instagram at @DanDanNoodles78.

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