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16/17 Report Cards: Cal Clutterbuck

May 8, 2017, 8:56 AM ET [144 Comments]
Dan Petriw
New York Islanders Blogger • RSSArchiveCONTACT
The 16/17 Islander season report cards continue today and we are up to number fifteen, winger Cal Clutterbuck. I always try and put something positive in these report cards much like a teacher would, but man this was a lost season for the fourth line winger.

Injuries really derailed him throughout the campaign as it seemed like he was always returning from something or fighting through another nagging problem. You have to hope that his reckless style of play that makes him a pain to play against doesn't shorten his career because years of being a crash test dummy always may lead to continual injuries in his thirties.

I'm sure Islanders General Manager Garth Snow thought that out when he gave Clutterbuck and absurd five year contract extension. The 3.5 million per year cap hit is not great but five years... I can't blame Cal for this one, this is squarely on the GM. Anyone of us would have signed that deal in a New York Minute.

When Clutterbuck was on the ice he managed 5 goals and 15 assists in 66 games played. He could never stay healthy long enough to make an impact that he had in past years with the club.

You have to hope that an offseason of rest will lead to a more effective energy winger that this team needs. The Isles need him to be that effective annoyance. They need him to score 10-15 goals and they need the energy he provides on the fourth line. But as we look back on the 16/17 season it's hard to give Cal a quality grade. He did pass but he was below average for sure, therefore I will give him a grade of C-.
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