Horvat Heist Getting Better & Better For Islanders
Horvat recorded his 30th goal of the season in the Islanders’ 2-1 win over the Stars to jump back into a playoff spot with nine games to go.
ELMONT, NY — Former New York Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello wanted to buy at the trade deadline; he always got his man.
In 2020, it was Jean-Gabriel Pageau.
In 2021, it was Kyle Palmieri and Travis Zajac.
And in 2023, it was Bo Horvat.
For the price of a first-round pick, prospect Aatu Räty, and Anthony Beauvillier, Lamoriello brought in a lethal, two-way top-line centerman.
He then signed the former Vancouver Canucks captain to an eight-year deal, worth $8.5 million annually.
“All I can tell you is it's too long, and it's too much money,” Lamoriello said after announcing the extension.
Since setting foot on Long Island, all Horvat has done is prove he’s exactly the player the Islanders thought they were acquiring.
And right now, he’s leading the charge as they fight for their playoff-hopeful lives.
Happy Free Friday!
On Thursday night, for the second time in three games, Horvat got the Islanders on the board early, helping to set the tone.
He scored first in the 1-0 win over Columbus before doing the same against Dallas.
His goal against the Stars was his 30th of the season, reaching that mark in just 59 games. He now sits with 52 points in 59 games, adding 22 assists to his stat ledger.
That goal marked the second time Horvat has hit 30 as a member of the Islanders, extending his point streak to five games (two goals, three assists.)
He accomplished that feat in the first year of his new deal, scoring 28 goals last season.
Could Bo Horvat have reached the 40-goal mark if not for injuries? He’s scored in 50.1% of the games he’s played — a pace that projects to 41 goals over a full 82-game season.
Horvat’s scoring ability is something this Islanders team has long been searching for.
Yes, they could still use another player like that, but this season especially, Horvat has done his part to help mitigate the loss of Brock Nelson.
The impact goes beyond just totals.
Of his 30 goals, seven have been game-winners — nearly a quarter of his production.
Five have opened the scoring. Three have tied the game at 1-1. Fifteen have given the Islanders the lead, including three overtime winners.
When Horvat produces, the Islanders follow.
They are 19-4-1 when he scores and 26-10-1 when he records a point.
When he doesn’t hit the scoresheet, they drop to 8-12-2.
His 14.9 shooting percentage is his highest since leaving Vancouver.
His 24:46 average time on ice is also his highest since departing the Canucks.
Simply put, he has been the guy for the Islanders in all facets, with his defensive play standing out as elite as well.
Add in his leadership, and No. 14 has been the full package.
At this point, it’s not just about what Horvat was brought in to be — it’s about what he’s become.
In the biggest moments, with the season on the line, he’s the one setting the tone, delivering the goals, and driving the results.
Exactly what Lou Lamoriello paid for.
BO HORVAT EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Stefen Rosner: How important is it to you to have reached the 30-goal mark?
Bo Horvat: “I mean, I think it’s nice to hit. But it’s not like I’m upset if I don’t, you know what I mean? At the beginning of the year, I’m just focused on trying to get wins. But to be a part of it in a scoring capacity, too, is big for our group—just trying to do whatever I can to help the team win.”
Rosner: Since coming to the Island, you’ve been very consistent. How important is that for you, especially getting the contract before even playing a game and then living up to expectations?
Horvat: “Yeah, I mean, you don’t want to let not only your teammates down, but you want to prove to Lou and the organization that they made the right decision in trusting me and my abilities. I’m grateful for that. It’s one of those things where you want to prove you’re worth that, right? That’s always in the back of my mind, and hopefully I’m doing that.”
Rosner: Was there ever a moment where it felt like this is home? How long does it take when you come to a new team?
Horvat: “Yeah, actually, when we got settled into our new place at the beginning of the next year, after I got traded. I got a full training camp under my belt and was around the guys all the time—that’s when it really started to feel like home. It’s just felt like home ever since. My family and I love it here, and I love playing here on the Island with this group.”
LATEST NEWS
ON THE ISLAND - EPISODE 5: The Details
SCORE PRIORITY PLAYOFF ACCESS
Worthwhile keeping an eye on Bridgeport AHL down the stretch. Tikkanen G playing pretty good. Plus all the Blue Chip Prospects flowing in like Eiserman, EKlund, and possibly Aitcheson if they eliminate a college season as a possibility for him. Other key depth players are developing down there under Rocky. Talk about a drastic turnaround!!!!! Well Done 👍
Lose-lose trade at the time according to the Athletic <eye roll>