On today’s episode of “Daily Faceoff Live,” Frank Seravalli and Tyler Yaremchuk discussed Bo Horvat’s first couple of games with the New York Islanders, how the relationship is already off to a great start and why Lou Lamoriello pulled the trigger on the deal.
Tyler Yaremchuk: The big move over the last week was Bo Horvat to the Islanders which we have talked a lot about. But, last night was Horvat’s home debut for the Islanders last night and of course, he found the back of the net as the Islanders continue on a great pace and shut out the Seattle Kraken 4-0. Not only did Horvat score but he also got a standing ovation from the crowd when he scored his first goal which was set up by Matt Barzal. What an interesting duo that could end up being for the Islanders, we have heard so much over the years about getting someone skilled to play with Barzal and it seems like Lamoriello and the Islanders have finally found that. The Horvat, Horvat, Horvat chants, a pretty cool scene Frank as the fans welcome their new guy.
Frank Seravalli: Yeah I loved to see something like being welcomed with open arms, you know the hairs on the back of your neck stand up when you hear that crowd chant. It’s pretty electric and aside from the fit, it wasn’t just about getting some skill for Matt Barzal it was about the finish. That’s what Horvat has been this season, in a big way too. Scored his 32nd of the season last night and he’s quickly knocking on the door of 40. It’s been magical from that perspective, so to plug that player in and develop any sort of chemistry that helps not only on even strength but also on the powerplay which has really struggled. Even more important than the goals, the reason they went out and pulled the trigger for Horvat was for the wins. So, now they’re 2-0 since Horvat joined the team on the back half of the NHL’s All-Star break. That’s a huge indicator for what’s potentially about to come, if he can give this team a shot in the arm and they can get in, that’s what their bet was on. Sorokin can shut the door, and you say “hey we’ve got the goalie that can allow us to go on a run here” so you try to load up as much as you can. You saw Lamoriello essentially triple down on his roster after doubling down on it in the summer. It’s rare to see that, especially for a team that’s been so middling but the results are what matters way more than the goals.
You can watch the full episode here…
