Islanders Look to Inspire Others....

Uniondale, NY -- Just 16 months ago, the New York Islanders held the 1st overall pick in the OTHL entry draft, after having won the draft lottery. There is only one way to win the draft lottery with your own draft pick, and that is to finish in (or near) the basement in the OTHL. Ironically, at the beginning of the season, the player who was taken with that pick (Erik Johnson) was dealt, and the Islanders have not looked back since. This is not to suggest that Johnson's departure has had anything to do with the Isles' success, but what is certain is that the team's plan has seemed to come to fruition. Upon taking over the Isles 3 seasons ago, GM Jones decided then and there to deal anyone with value to not just stock the farm system, but build it to be the strongest in the league. Well, those prospects and young players who Jones picked up are now having a major impact. Some have made the pro team, while others were dealt to pick up other young pieces. Today, the Islanders boast one of the best young cores in the NHL, combined with several solid veterans who have been picked up to gel and teach the youngsters. The outcome? Well it is not even the All-Star break, but things are looking good so far, as the Islanders now lead the Eastern Conference with 45 points. They are 9-1 in their last 10, and lead the league in goals for, while being 4th in goals against. Ales Hemsky, one of the young players first acquired by Jones, is among the top 5 in league scoring. "It is great to see the team showing some results," said Peter Forsberg. "I was happy to make the playoffs last year, but this team is showing that nothing short of a trip to the finals will be acceptable this season. Some people wondered why I came to the Islanders two seasons ago, when I could have picked any team in the league. Well now you know. We all see something special here, it is just a matter of keeping it up."