The 16/17 Islander Report Cards continue today with defenseman Scotty Mayfield. The 2011 second round pick made his biggest contribution to the organization this past season playing in a career high twenty five games. While I have spoken at length about Mayfield’s skating being his biggest drawback, I do think he answered some questions this past season.

Mayfield’s biggest issue has been his skating. I fully believe that if Scotty played in the late 90’s he would be a top six dman. I do think his top end speed has gotten to an acceptable level, however it is those starts and stops…. Those quick bursts and reactions where Mayfield can beat exposed. While his skating keeps him from being a NHL regular, Mayfield does bring something to the table.

When he hits people they fall. Mayfield is a solid physical presence on the ice and has shown a willingness to stand up for his teammates. In his twenty five games with the Isles this past season, the dman recorded two goals, seven assists, thirty five penalty minutes and was a minus one.

I do not think that Mayfield is an everyday dman in this league but I do believe there is a role for him on this team. I have no issues with Mayfield being the extra dman on this roster. With the likes of extra dmen this team has seen the past ten years, Mayfield is probably the best of them. He can fill in and provide solid depth in the lineup when an injury occurs. When looking back at the 16/17 season and based on what his role on the team was, I think Mayfield met those expectations. Therefore, I will give him a grade of B-.

Join the Discussion: » 93 Comments » Post New Comment

» Thank You Hockeybuzz

» Isles roster set

» Thoughts through Two

» Isles Buzz Podcast - Non John Tavares training camp storylines

» Bettman: Coli is not an option