NYI Fan Central Final Review: Kyle Okposo

New York Islander Fan Central | 5/28/2008 09:05:00 PM | |
Tonight's mini-review is on the Islanders top draft pick Kyle Okposo.

2007-08:
Overall it was a wild ride for Okposo in 07-08 being one of the first player to leave college in season and sign with an NHL club as he was headed to the WJC. A few weeks after the commotion died down after he returned from team USA he found himself with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers in completely different circumstances as a professional.

Islander stretch:
Okposo was recalled to the Isles as soon as his contract could no longer count against this season and he did not disappoint showing the skills and hockey ability to find the open area's of the ice and make plays to get into position. He looked very solid with Richard Park and Blake Comeau. His first goal was very impressive that won a game against the Devils where he got himself to the high slot and unloaded a rocket to beat Martin Brodeur, another goal he hit the hole and drove the net for a good goal against the Rangers in the season finale. He's not easy to take off the puck and a wrap around against Toronto almost brought down the house in his home debut.

All in all you look at a player like Tambellini who has had several NHL looks and seems invisible then you see Okposo come up and make that kind of impact where he is a factor and it's very impressive at such a young age after a tough season with so much change.

Moving ahead:
It would not shock me to see him with the Isles but maybe the right thing to do is let him get a full year in Bridgeport. With Guerin, Hunter under contract there seems to be room for only one more right wing. If Satan is resigned or another veteran scoring right winger is brought in there does not seem to be a spot for Okposo unless he plays on a fourth line. Either way it's a good situtation for the club because he can flat out play with a talent level lacking on the roster.

Final grade:
For his nine games he hardly looked out of place for his age and showed good instincts. Put me down for an A as I cannot wait to see him a year older and better hopefully with a scoring center who can get him the puck.