Barzal Healthy Scratch Sends Message About Islanders’ Culture
In a move that reverberated throughout the New York Islanders organization and the NHL at large, star forward Mathew Barzal was a healthy scratch for Thursday's game against the Carolina Hurricanes. The disciplinary measure, announced by head coach Patrick Roy, was a direct consequence of Barzal arriving late for the morning skate. While the absence of a player of Barzal's caliber would undoubtedly impact the team's on-ice performance, the decision sent a clear and resounding message: accountability and team culture take precedence, regardless of individual talent or status.
"That's the culture of our team," Roy stated, emphasizing that the decision to sit Barzal was not taken lightly but was essential to maintain the standards the team is striving to uphold. He conveyed that Barzal respected and understood the decision, despite his disappointment. Roy even drew upon his own experience as a player, recalling a time in Colorado when he faced similar consequences for missing a practice.
The move is seen as a statement by General Manager Mathieu Darche, who is trying to instill a culture of accountability. Some suggest that Barzal's tardiness was not an isolated incident, but the "last straw" after previous instances where he had been given leeway.
Barzal, 28, is in the third season of an eight-year, $73.2 million contract, carrying a $9.15 million cap hit, the highest on the team. Through nine games this season, he has recorded two goals and six assists, sharing the team lead in assists with captain Anders Lee. He is averaging 21:09 of ice time per game, second among Islanders forwards behind Bo Horvat. Last season, Barzal's season was cut short due to injuries, limiting him to 30 games. In those games, he still managed to score six goals and add 20 assists. In 539 career NHL games, Barzal has accumulated 136 goals and 334 assists for a total of 470 points.
The Islanders recalled Calum Ritchie, who was acquired as part of the Brock Nelson trade, and he made his debut in Barzal's place.
While some fans may question the decision to bench a star player, particularly with the Islanders currently at the bottom of the Metropolitan Division, the organization is betting that the long-term benefits of fostering a culture of accountability will outweigh any short-term setbacks. The message is clear: under Roy and Darche, no player, regardless of their talent or salary, is exempt from adhering to the team's standards. Barzal was back in the lineup for Friday's game against the Washington Capitals.
