There can be an argument made that Calvin de Haan was the Islanders best defenseman this season. The organization and the fans have been waiting for the 2009 first rounder to reach his potential.
de Haan was the only Isles defenseman to play in all 82 games and set career high in every offensive category. That being said, de Haan is clearly not an offensive-only defenseman, but 25 points for a 2nd pairing defenseman is not too bad.
On the defensive side, de Haan was the team's best defenseman. He did get beat and commit a couple of turnovers on occasion but he did limit them. de Haan's has taken over Andrew MacDonald as the team's shot-blocking defenseman. He was fourth in the league with 190.
Following the season, de Haan represented Team Canada in the World Championships and was rewarded with a Silver medal.
de haan's career season could not have come at a worse time though. The expansion draft is three weeks away and the Islanders have some decisions to make. General manager Garth Snow will likely protect eight skaters. The question is whether four or potentially five defensemen get protected.
de Haan is also a restricted free agent and will likely get a Travis Hamonic-type cap hit, but will it come from the Islanders or Las Vegas?
2016-17 final grade: A-
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