Though team wanted to stand pat at the trade deadline, the New York Islanders decided to shake things up by making a few moves for the home stretch.
The first and perhaps biggest move made was the change of backup goalies in a deal that landed them Michal Neuvirth. The Islanders goaltending has been much improved this season however, Chad Johnson was not playing playing quite up to his capabilities as Halak's backup. His 8-8 Record and 3.08 GAA is not terrible, but if the Isles are going to take the top playoff seed and make a run for the cup, they are going to need more. Neuvirth may be an underwhelming 6-17 but he has shown a steadier hand at the net despite his record. Hopefully the change in scenery will boost his competitive spirit and help guide the Islanders to the top spot.
In their other moves of the day the Isles acquired forward Tyler Kennedy for a draft pick from San Jose and traded Cory Conacher to Vancouver for Dustin Jeffrey. These moves may not seem like much, especially since Jeffrey will most likely won't see NHL action just yet. Nonetheless, with players still on the mend (Okposo, Grabovski, Cizikas) Kennedy's role will serve a great importance. He's not a top tier scorer but around players like Tavares, Bailey, Lee and Strome he should prove useful, especially with his knack for getting shots on the net.
It's going to interesting in the Metropolitan over the next month with the Islanders set to duke it out with the Rangers and Penguins for first place. The decision to make deals could prove to be a difference maker if the team makes the most of them. The push for playoff position is full effect and the Islanders have tooled up for what is sure to be one heck of a ride.
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