New York Islanders: 2 Bounce-Back Candidates for Next Season

Each year, we see players around the NHL bounce back from rough seasons. The 2024-25 campaign should offer more of the same, so in this latest series for NHL Trade Rumors, we will take a look at a few bounce-back candidates from every NHL club.

In this latest edition of the series, the New York Islanders will be the team focused on.

Anders Lee: Anders Lee is one of the Islanders' most important forwards, as evidenced by the Edina, Minnesota native sporting the 'C' on his sweater. However, the 34-year-old winger is coming off a down season with the Islanders, as he recorded 20 goals and 37 points in 81 games played. While these numbers are not necessarily bad, they are below how Lee normally produces. As a result, it would not be too surprising if Lee regains his normal form next season. Keep in mind, he posted 28 goals just back during the 2022-23 season.

Jean-Gabriel Pageau: Jean-Gabriel Pageau is another Islanders veteran forward who struggled to produce at his expected offensive level last season. In 82 games, the 31-year-old recorded 11 goals and 33 points. When noting that he had 13 goals and 40 points just back in 2022-23, it would not be surprising if his offense improved next season.