Griffin Reinhart

Reinhart, the fourth overall pick in the 2012 NHL Entry Draft, was dealt from the Islanders to the Oilers in June. After being passed up by several defensive prospects in his old organization. Reinhart could find new life in the Edmonton system, which still has deep needs on the blue line. Reinhart could claim an NHL role right away with the Oilers, but he's still raw and will likely have his ups and downs, which could result in inconsistent minutes this season.

The Islanders will have a decision to make on Reinhart during training camp. He was named the MVP of the WHL Championship Series and is now ready to begin his professional career. The question is whether he will begin in the AHL or NHL. As things stand now, the smart money would seem to be on the Isles putting Reinhart in Bridgeport to begin the season, with a possible call-up coming once he proves himself in the minors. However, a strong training camp combined with the Islanders’ lack of top defenders could force the organization’s hand. Long-term, both Reinhart and Ryan Pulock are the future of the Islanders’ defense, as both project to be top-pair defenders. Just don’t expect Reinhart to step into a vital role with the Islanders immediately upon making his debut.

Reinhart was the Islanders' 1st-round pick in the 2012 draft and had eight goals and 29 points in the WHL last season. Reinhart has had to defend some hits against his reputation as a soft player but he still projects as a possible top-four defenseman, but won't play on Long Island this season.

The fourth pick in this past June's draft, Reinhart has the size to play in the NHL immediately, but more than likely will spend a majority of the season getting accustomed to the pro game. That being said, the Islanders haven't been against starting their top picks immediately, and there is a need for young, solid, two-way defensemen on Long Island. Reinhart has some offensive upside, as he notched 36 points in 58 games with Edmonton of the Western Hockey League last season.