Islanders News: Wahlstrom’s growth, Pelech’s price, Salo’s future

The Islanders are in the midst of a four-game home stand, part of a larger nine of the next 10 at Nassau Coliseum. That part may or may not matter, but they’ll take whatever advantage they can get as they prepare for the Bruins and two with the Penguins this week. Then three with the Sabres, another with the Bruins, and more with the Devils follow.

Lather, rinse, Covid protocol, repeat.

Islanders News

• Oliver Wahlstrom has impressed Barry Trotz, and of course it’s not just his shot. [Newsday]
• Many laughed when Garth Snow signed Adam Pelech to a long-term deal, which is now a bargain. But now that’s pivotal on the top pair, what should his next contract be? [Athletic]
• Robin Salo discusses his ELC, his hopes of making it in North America. [Eyes on Isles]
• Bridgeport Report: Samuel Bolduc with a three-point game. [Isles]
• Yet more NHL schedule changes: The April 14 game against the Bruins has been moved to April 15. [Isles]

Elsewhere

Last night’s NHL scores include the the Penguins beating the Capitals in OT, and the Sabres topping the Devils.

• Four of Artemi Panarin’s contemporaries can not recall anything similar to the accusation lodged against him by a then-teammate who appears to be a Putin lackey. [Post]
• What’s next for Jeff Skinner after his (now two) healthy scratch? He was replaced by Casey Mittelstadt, who was stoned on a breakaway by Varly. [Athletic]
• 31 Thoughts on Canada and California. [Sportsnet]
• What is one to make of Matt Duchene’s thus far disappointing tenure with the Predators? [On the Forecheck]
• Some older Red Wings are surely on the trade market. Also, Henrik Lundqvist is skating again but surely not expected to return this season. [TSN Insider Trading]
• Mike Babcock is on his redemption tour, and says he knew that he’d be fired once Lou Lamoriello left the Leafs. [Sportsnet | Sportsnet too]
• Already missing Colton Parayko (and several forwards), the Blues will now be without Carl Gunnarsson for the rest of the season. [TSN]
• Another hit to the Sabres blueline: William Borgen out with a broken arm. [TSN]

Controversy last night: Brendan Gallagher thought he had the late winner for the Canadiens but it was overturned on a controversial review for goalie interference, and the Senators won in a shootout. The American was not happy.

Opinions differ:

Me? I’m amazed anyone thinks there’s a coherent and consistently enforced definition at this point. But maybe I’m just scarred from all of the dubious and inconsistent “kicking motion” calls we’ve experienced over the years.