Islanders are going into the 13-14 season with 2 top line players including Nash and Kronwall which is a considerable improvement from entering last season where there were none. Lundqvist is returning as the #1 rated goalie in the league and will be expected to be a workhorse as new back-up Budaj is a step down from last year in Clemmenson. The UFA period came with great disappointment as Islanders GM misjudged the market and overpaid on several free agents causing plans to be altered. As with last year Islanders failed to land a true #1 or even #2 Centre for that matter. Albeit the defensive core is just as solid if not more solid than last year. Realistically it can be expected for the Islanders to have a reduction in offensive output however will be difficult to score against. Obvious needs include a top 6 center and winger. Depth will be an issue as only one player on the farm is worth mentioning in Scandella, other than that there are no other dependable call-ups. With a few fragile players in the line-up this could become a major issue.
