How Patrick Roy transformed the Islanders into an offensive team – The Hockey Writers – New York Islanders
The New York Islanders are showing clear signs this season of transforming from a defense-first team into a truly dangerous offensive unit. The team’s scoring pace has increased under head coach Patrick Roy and general manager Mathieu Darche, with key additions and an updated structure giving the offense more freedom while maintaining structure.
Offensive metrics back it up
In the 2024-25 season, the Islanders are averaging just 2.71 goals per game, which ranks them tied for 27th in the NHL. However, they have made significant progress early in the season: in the first eight games, they have scored a total of 30 goals (3.75 goals/total), ranking ninth in the league for goals scored.
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They averaged nearly 29.9 shots per game, ranking eighth overall. The uptick makes sense: more shots, more points, and better deployment of offensive resources.
What happened to the structure?
Fresh top-six firepower and versatility
The Islanders quietly reshaped their offensive identity to start the season, thanks in large part to a revamped front six that finally provides balance and creativity. Jonathan Drouin joined in the offseason on a two-year contract, bringing a much-needed organizational element to the forward group. His vision and puck distribution immediately improved the Islanders’ strength, which has jumped to near league average after finishing in the bottom five last season.
Drouin’s chemistry with Bo Horvat (five goals and four assists in his first seven games) has been notable, as the two have linked up multiple times in quick passing sequences and in net settings. Meanwhile, Emile Heinemann, acquired in the Noah Dobson trade with the Montreal Canadiens, was one of the biggest early-season surprises, scoring five goals in seven games and giving the Islanders an explosive scoring threat on the wing. Together, the trio brings new energy to a team that often relies too much on low-scoring games.
Young works get opportunities
The islanders’ turn to integrate with the youth is another major storyline. 18-year-old defenseman Matthew Schaefer, the team’s 2024 first-round pick, has made the NHL roster and has impressed with his confidence and mobility. Schaefer’s ability to pass the ball quickly in transition adds an element of speed to the Islanders’ blueline that has been lacking in recent seasons.
That Roy trusted him in key situations, including second power play minutes and late-game rotations, speaks volumes about his composure and potential. His presence allows veterans such as Adam Pelech and Ryan Pulock to play more defined defensive roles, giving the entire team a better balance between offensive support and defensive responsibilities. In addition to Schaefer, other young players such as Simon Holmstrom and Ruslan Iskhakov have received more playing time, creating healthy internal competition and injecting energy into the lineup.
Emphasis on effective zone time and transition opportunities
Under Roy, the Islanders have made significant improvements in controlling the puck and creating scoring chances. This season, their Corsi shooting percentage (CF%) and expected goals percentage (xGF%) have both climbed significantly compared to last season, indicating better ball control and more sustained pressure in the offensive zone. They transition from defense to offense with greater efficiency, often using stretch passes or controlling zone entries to create high-danger looks.
The Islanders were also more aggressive up front, which led to turnovers and second-chance scoring opportunities, something they had struggled with in previous seasons. Despite the increased offensive tempo, the team hasn’t sacrificed its signature defensive structure, maintaining one of the league’s best goal-scoring numbers in the first few weeks.
The combination of new offensive creativity, youthful energy and refined system makes the Islanders a more balanced and dangerous team early in the 2025-26 season. If their key players stay healthy and their young core continues to improve, they can develop from a traditional defense-first team to one that can compete with the high-octane offenses in the Eastern Conference.
Players driving the wave
- bohovat Leads with nine points (five goals, four assists) in eight games and a +6 rating.
- Emile Heinemann Scored 6 points in 8 games (5 goals and 1 assist), a significant breakthrough on the offensive end.
- Matthew ShaferDespite being a rookie defender, he has already scored 7 points (2 goals, 5 assists) in eight games, showing his commitment and composure.
The big picture: why it matters
In a Metropolitan Division filled with speed, elite forwards and high-scoring teams, the Islanders can’t rely solely on superior defense. This offensive improvement allows them to:
- Be able to win high-scoring games, not just low-goal battles.
- Scoring depth, not just the top line, but meaningful contributions from multiple players.
- Transitioning into a “two-way threat” state, they can outrun and glide past their opponents rather than just crush them.
What to pay attention to
- consistency: Averaging around 3.75 goals per game over a long period of time will be the difference between a good team and a real threat.
- special teams: Power struggles remain an area of concern; early-season conversion rate of 18.5% (22nd).
- Depth scoring: In addition to the top contributors, the third and fourth lines must also continue to deliver.
- defensive balance: As the offense ramps up, the team must avoid falling into old defensive missteps; they allow 3.4 goals per game (22nd).
final thoughts
The Islanders’ offense is no longer an afterthought; it’s becoming a cornerstone. With a new structural approach, smart personnel acquisitions and early statistics, they could quietly evolve into one of the most dangerous clubs in the league. The transformation isn’t complete yet, but the signs are real: A team once defined solely by its defense now has real scoring ability.
