Barry Trotz on the Path Ahead in Mathew Barzal’s Evolution

Building the whole toolbox.Details.

If there is any single word that has summed up Barry Trotz’s arrival to the New York Islanders as head coach, and players reactions to his arrival, it is the details.

He wants more detail in their game. The players have remarked — with appreciation — at how much detail he’s added to their game.

Mostly this has been in the defensive and shot selection areas of the game. So it’s no surprise that Mathew Barzal, their highest talent and their most prolific freelancer, is the one who most needs to incorporate those details into his overall game.

At the risk* of making this Mathew Barzal Evolution Week — Jonathan covered his defensive weaknesses and bright spots…