New York Islanders: 2 Prospects Who Could Make The Team Next Season

Having a strong prospect pool is such an important thing, as it helps determine the future success of all NHL franchises. Although it is always nice to be competitive now, things changes rapidly and it truly is a young man's league. Therefore, it feels right to start a 32-team segment covering them. During it, we will be looking at two prospects from every NHL franchise who could be NHLers next season. 

With this piece, we will be looking at the New York Islanders. The Islanders have been fantastic these last two seasons, as they made it to the Eastern Conference Final each of them. With the team losing some players this off-season, they could elect to play their prospects a bit more. They may not end up being inserted into the lineup every single game, but fans could get a glance of them at a minimum. Here are two players who come to mind. 

Kieffer Bellows LW: Next season should be the year where Kieffer Bellows finally gets his prolonged chance at the NHL level. Over the last two seasons, he has played 22 total games with the team. In them he scored five goals and added an assist. He could be a nice addition to the bottom-six, as the team have lost multiple wingers this off-season. The former first-round pick is always active in the physical side of the game and can chip in some goals in the process.

Bode Wilde D: One defenseman who could get some NHL time next season is Bode Wilde. In 22 games with the Bridgeport Islanders this season, he scored three goals and had six points. Those are not jaw-dropping totals, but he did show at the OHL level that he can contribute well. He also has been noted for his quick speed and overall dependability on the backend, so he could be a nice two-way defenseman for them in the future. When injuries inevitably occur with their defenders, do not be surprised to see this 21-year-old called up.