UNDERRATED: Can Ilya Sorokin & New York Islanders PROVE The Athletic WRONG and EXCEED Expectations?

The New York Islanders face skepticism as The Athletic projects major regression—can Peter DeBoer's system and rising stars defy the doubters? Gil Martin examines what Anders Lee’s departure, lack of firepower, and reliance on Ilya Sorokin mean for the Islanders’ playoff hopes, while spotlighting Cal Ritchie, Matthew Schaefer, and the coach’s impact on defensive structure.

Key topics include Scott Mayfield shifting to a potential seventh defenseman role, Alexander Romanov’s off-season transformation, and the critical need for a revitalized power play. Plus, Gil Martin previews the final preseason battles against the Rangers and Devils, debates fan poll results on Bo Horvat vs. Mathew Barzal, and celebrates Garry Howatt’s gritty legacy. Can the Islanders turn disrespect into motivation and prove the experts wrong as the new season dawns?

All this and more on today's Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin.

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