NYI Fan Central Final Review of Shawn Bates

In honor of tax deadline day a mini review of Shawn Bates.

2007-08:
Not much to write here, he worked his back from the previous season's injury, scored a goal at Bridgeport in a conditioning assignment before another injury struck which again forced surgery, ending his season. It was notable Ted Nolan did not commit to a full time spot for him when he was recovering but injuries/Chris Simon suspension created a spot for him.

Looking ahead:
Bates enters the last year of his three year contract. No updated reports on whether he can continue to play. If he can return my guess is with Richard Park and Andy Hilbert signed combined with many young forwards needing an opportunity it's fair to speculate Shawn Bates Islander career could be coming to an end regardless. As a left wing/center Isles seemed well stocked in that department with the same kind of player and Jon Sim with two more years on his contract and better scoring ability.

Of course I wrote this last summer so we'll see. We all know Bates is not going to help this club with his offense beyond a few games but can help a team with his hard work, skating and penalty killing. His class and character is always something you want on your team.