The Future Part 3: Forward

Conclusion of my 3 part prospects preview.

Forward.

Casey Cizikas: NY Islanders' 4th round choice, 92nd overall, in 2009

Fourth rounders troubles are well known but he has high end skill and with his past behind him could end up being a steal. Will play with Mississauga this season and probably next.

Justin DiBenedetto: NY Islanders' 6th round choice, 175th overall, in 2008

A real wild card here. “DiBo” is a solid skater with decent size and a great pair of hands. Proved with the absence of Stamkos his numbers were no fluke for the Sarnia Sting. Will play in the Bridge this season and could end up being a steal or an AHL lifer.

Robin Figren: NY Islanders' 3rd round choice, 70th overall, in 2006

Struggled in his first season in the Swedish Elite League. Came over and played in several games with the Sound Tigers at the end of last season. Has the skating ability, will need to put together the rest to have any impact.

Matt Martin: NY Islanders' 5th round choice, 148th overall, in 2008

Late blooming power forward type must be signed before next years draft. One of the few Islander forward prospects with size and toughness. If signed will start with Bridgeport this season and could be a key piece down the road.

Krill Petrov: NY Islanders' 3rd round choice, 73rd overall, in 2008

Another wild card here. Has all the talent of a 1st rounder, but has 3 more years left on his KHL deal and his development has suffered due to injuries and lack of playing time. A project at this point.

Rhett Rakhshani: NY Islanders' 4th round choice, 100th overall, in 2006

Will start his senior season with Denver U. Almost a certain to sign a pro contract once his season concludes. Has speed and playmaking ability. Could possibly make the jump to the NHL right away.

Corey Trivino: NY Islanders' 2nd round choice, 36th overall, in 2008

The BU sophomore will be relied on heavily for the defending National champs. On the small side but has added strength and has a scoring touch. Probaly two years away but could end up being a trade chip with Tavares and Bailey 1-2 down the middle.

David Ullstrom: NY Islanders' 4th round choice, 102nd overall, in 2008

Had a great 2008 WJC and could end up a steal. A grinding winger with hands. Will play one more year in the SEL and sign a pro deal. A couple years away but an intriguing prospect.

Jesse Joensuu: NY Islanders' 2nd round choice, 60th overall, in 2006

Might be a top 6 winger as soon as this season. He has size and goal scoring ability, two qualities the Isles are lacking. Had a solid first pro season with 20 goals in the A and flashed a mean streak. Scored a goal in his first NHL game…very close.

Trevor Smith: Signed by the Islanders as a free agent on April 2, 2007

An undrafted free agent. Smith had 30 goals for Bridgeport and did not look out of place when called up by the big club. Will need to score to be a NHLer as he is not a great skater and does not bring a physical edge. Big year for Smith, he could crack the Isles’ lineup or be passed by the younger prospects inhabiting the Bridge.