Matias Maccelli Shines in Preseason, Boosts Islanders Power Play
In a second preseason game at Madison Square Garden, New York Islanders forward Matias Maccelli netted two goals, confirming his potential as a top‑six player and contributing to a more effective power play. The performance comes as the Islanders aim to strengthen their offensive lineup and improve…
By Felo News Desk · Published
The New York Islanders’ preseason slate has been a testing ground for new additions, and the latest highlight came from forward Matias Maccelli. In the team’s second exhibition match against the New York Rangers, Maccelli scored twice, both on the power play, and helped the Isles secure a 4‑3 victory at Madison Square Garden.
From Maple Leafs to New York: Maccelli’s Journey
Last season, Maccelli began the campaign on the Toronto Maple Leafs’ top line alongside Auston Matthews. Despite a promising start, he finished with 14 goals and 39 points, and at one point was a healthy scratch. The move to New York was a chance for the 63‑year‑old to re‑establish himself as a reliable top‑six contributor.
During the preseason, the Islanders’ coaching staff, led by head coach Pete DeBoer, have been evaluating whether Maccelli can fill a role similar to former Isles forward Anders Lee. DeBoer’s focus has been on adding goal‑scoring depth and revitalizing a power‑play unit that struggled last season, posting a 16.5% success rate – the third‑worst in the NHL.
Maccelli’s Two‑Goal Performance
In the game against the Rangers, Maccelli’s first goal came from a fortunate bounce. He launched a puck toward the net, it ricocheted off defenseman Sean Durzi, and found the back of the net. His second tally was more textbook: a rebound off Spencer Martin’s shot from Matthew Schaefer, which Maccelli collected and calmly finished.
Both goals were scored while the Islanders were on the power play, underscoring the player’s ability to capitalize on man‑advantage situations. The Isles’ power‑play unit, which had struggled to find consistency, appeared more cohesive and dangerous during the game, with Schaefer also adding a goal.
Coaching Perspective and Future Outlook
Pete DeBoer praised Maccelli’s effort, noting that the player “did what he’s supposed to do” and made a statement about his fit on the team. DeBoer emphasized the importance of goal production for playoff aspirations, stating, “You need a certain amount of goals in this league in order to get in the playoffs.” He also highlighted the need to temper enthusiasm after a single game, reminding the team that improvement is a process.
DeBoer also touched on the future of the Isles’ second‑year superstar, Matthew Schaefer, describing him as “a future captain of this team.” The coach’s confidence in both players signals a positive direction for the Islanders’ offensive strategy.
Roster Moves and AHL Assignments
In addition to Maccelli’s performance, the Islanders made several roster adjustments. Defenseman Ethan Bear and goaltender Henrik Tikkanen were waived, allowing the team to assign them to the AHL affiliate, the Hamilton Bulldogs. Other players such as Cameron Berg, Cam Thiesing, Jesse Pulkkinen, Hunter Drew, and several others were also sent down to the Bulldogs to gain more playing time and development opportunities.
These moves reflect the Islanders’ strategy of balancing immediate competitiveness with long‑term growth, ensuring that younger talent has the chance to refine their skills in a lower‑level environment.
What’s Next for the Islanders?
As the preseason continues, the Islanders will focus on solidifying their power‑play schemes and integrating Maccelli into a top‑six role. The coaching staff will monitor how the player adapts to the increased responsibilities and whether he can maintain the goal‑scoring momentum seen in the recent game.
While the preseason is a testing ground, the early signs suggest that the Islanders are on the right track to address the uncertainties that greeted them at the start of training camp. The next few games will determine whether the adjustments translate into sustained performance during the regular season.
Key facts
- Maccelli nets two power‑play goals in preseason
- Islanders’ power play shows improvement
- Head coach Pete DeBoer emphasizes goal production
- Several players assigned to AHL for development
- Islanders focus on solidifying top‑six roles
Why it matters
Maccelli’s early success signals a promising addition to the Islanders’ offense and suggests the team’s power‑play strategy is on the right track, both crucial for a playoff push.
Frequently asked questions
What role does Maccelli play on the Islanders?
He is being evaluated as a potential top‑six forward, similar to former Isles player Anders Lee.
How did the Islanders’ power play perform in the preseason?
They showed improvement, scoring multiple goals and appearing more dangerous during man‑advantage situations.
What roster changes were made during the preseason?
Ethan Bear and Henrik Tikkanen were waived, with several players assigned to the AHL Hamilton Bulldogs.
What is the Islanders’ plan moving forward?
The team aims to solidify its power play, integrate new talent like Maccelli into key roles, and prepare for a competitive regular season.
Sources
- [1] nypost.com — originally reported as “Islanders’ Matias Maccelli calms two preseason concerns with two-goal performance”
