The NHL Hot Seat Radar series continues with the New York Islanders, highlighting players under pressure to deliver results and those secure in their roles.

ISLANDERS’ HOT SEAT: (TIE) PIERRE ENGVALL, LW, AND JEAN-GABRIEL PAGEAU, C

The Islanders struggled last season, clinching a playoff spot late and being quickly eliminated. A key issue was the lack of production from high-paid veteran forwards. The team ranked 22nd in goals scored, with 245. Pageau managed only 11 goals and 33 points in 82 games, while Engvall had 10 goals and 28 points in 74 games. Pageau is signed for two more seasons with a $5 million cap hit, and Engvall has four years left at $3 million per year. Their underwhelming performance is concerning given their contracts. According to Stefen Rosner from The Hockey News, Engvall’s role shifted from the second to the third line during the season, which is costly with Lee’s $7 million cap hit for the third line. While the Islanders have strong players like Brock Nelson, Bo Horvat, Kyle Palmieri, and Mathew Barzal, Pageau and Engvall’s lackluster output raises concerns about secondary scoring, especially with only $50,000 in cap space. If they don’t at least reach their career highs (43 points for Pageau and 35 for Engvall), justifying their roster spots will be challenging next season.

ISLANDERS’ COLD SEAT: PATRICK ROY, COACH

The hiring of Patrick Roy as coach, replacing Brad Lambert midway through the season, was unexpected. However, Roy successfully led the team to the playoffs. At 58, Roy had been eager to return to NHL coaching, and the Islanders presented a prime opportunity. Despite GM Lou Lamoriello’s reputation for quick coaching changes, Roy’s competitive nature and reputation should ensure his position for at least a few years. His track record as a relentless winner and his potential to guide the Islanders to a deep playoff run will likely secure his job for the foreseeable future.