There have been many struggles for the New York Islanders through their first 15 games, but off-season signing Maxim Tsyplakov has not been one of them.
The Russian winger has played on the second line, logging two goals with seven assists for nine points, averaging 16:41 minutes per game.
Tsyplakov’s stat line paces out to just under 50 points for a full 82-game season. Now, that doesn’t sound like much, but keep in mind the Islanders have struggled to score as a whole.
As it stands, Tsyplakov is tied for third in team points and leads the team with a +7 at 5-on-5.
What more can you expect from a player signed for $950,000?
Tsyplakov has exceeded expectations, though. The 6’3, 210-pound winger has brought physicality to every game and has been unafraid to battle along the boards.
Tsyplakov leads the Islanders in hits with 45; the next closest is J.G. Pageau with 35.
“When we watch him, like before talking to him and and hoping that he will join our team, that’s what we saw in the video,” Islanders head coach Patrick Roy told reporters on Monday. “He was around the net. He was protecting the puck well, he was covering the defense, and when we spoke to him, it was exactly what I said. That’s the reason why we like him. That’s why we think he could play on top lines for us right away because he’s 26. He’s ready to play. So, I’m not surprised.”
Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
If Tsyplakov’s game can improve in one area, it’s discipline. The winger leads the Islanders with 14 penalty minutes—five of which are stick infractions. Many of his penalties have come at inopportune times, and with the Islanders’ poor penalty kill, the infractions are only more impactful.
However, considering that Tsyplakov has adapted well to the other facets of North American hockey, it’s safe to say he is an established NHLer. Amidst injuries, Tsyplakov has been a much-needed stabilizing force in the top six.
And credit to No. 7, because he is producing, knowing that if he doesn’t, he’ll be dropped down.
