The Islanders are hoping for Lucky 13 for a second straight season, but in a much different context this time than the lottery ball that fell their way a year ago.
This year, it’s about nailing pick No. 13 after they didn’t move up at the lottery. With well over a month to go before the draft in Buffalo, it’s still early in the process. But not too early to start identifying possibilities the Islanders could look at with their pick.
Ryan Lin, RD, Vancouver Giants (WHL)
If you’re going by fit, there’s a good chance Lin will be the best right-handed defenseman available by the time the Islanders pick, and it’s the position at which the organization is weakest.
A University of Denver commit next season, Lin averaged more than a point per game in the Western Hockey League and is said to be a strong all-around player. At 5-foot-11, 176 pounds, his size might create some questions, but he has a strong battle level — something Isles GM Mathieu Darche values — plays both special teams and can move pucks.
