Unveiling the Islanders' Top Skaters: A Statistical and Analytical Journey
EDMONTON, ALBERTA — The NHL's skating prowess is a spectacle, and Connor McDavid sets the bar sky-high with his lightning-fast speed. But when it comes to comparing elite skills, Mathew Barzal and rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer emerge as the Islanders' top skaters, according to both the eye test and advanced analytics.
Barzal, who suffered a season-ending injury last February, surprisingly ranks 10th in maximum skating speed at 22.43 mph, according to NHL Edge. However, his true talent lies in his ability to generate bursts of speed. Barzal leads the team with 164 bursts of at least 20 mph, while Schaefer follows closely behind with 142. This dynamic duo's skating prowess is a testament to their natural talent and dedication to their craft.
Right wing Emil Heineman currently holds the team's maximum skating speed at 23.40 mph, but Schaefer's speed of 22.94 mph is a close second. Since NHL Edge began tracking these statistics in 2021-22, Barzal has showcased his speed, logging the team's top speed of 23.67 mph in 2022-23 and finishing second twice.
Barzal's journey back from injury is a testament to his resilience. He shared his concerns about the impact of the injury, stating, 'There was a lot of concern. I didn't get a full summer of training, and I had to rebuild my leg muscle.' Despite the challenges, Barzal's determination shines through, as he emphasizes the importance of a tight edge and the joy of regaining his skating speed.
McDavid, the NHL's maximum skating speed champion at 24.61 mph, leads the league with 90 bursts of 22 mph or more and 310 bursts of 20 mph or more. However, Barzal's triumph over McDavid in the fastest skater event at the NHL Skills Competition in 2020 remains a memorable highlight.
Barzal's self-analysis of his skating ability is intriguing. He believes that the actual makeup of one's legs is the key to their skating style. Growing up with a natural stride, Barzal's bow-legged stance may contribute to his exceptional skating skills. He shares, 'I'm fairly bow-legged, and so are most guys in the room. It's a natural part of our skating ability.'
Schaefer, 10 years younger than Barzal, embraces a more carefree approach to his skating. He attributes his natural talent to his love for rollerblading and watching his brother play hockey. Schaefer's quick learning curve and natural talent make him a force to be reckoned with on the ice.
The impact of Barzal and Schaefer's skating skills is evident in the eyes of their teammates. Anders Lee, a power forward, admires their speed and often discusses it with his teammates. Lee's appreciation for their skating ability adds to the team's dynamic, creating a unique blend of power and speed.
Andrew Gross, a seasoned journalist, has covered the Islanders since 2018, bringing his expertise to the NHL. His journey in covering the NHL began in 2003, and he has previously reported on the Rangers and Devils, showcasing his versatility and passion for the sport.
