3 things to know about new Islanders center Brayden Schenn
St. Louis Blues center Brayden Schenn. Credit: AP/Julio Cortez
His play
The 6-1, 200-pound Schenn has been a steady offensive producer across his 17 NHL seasons (290 goals, 423 assists, 1083 games) who also plays a physical game. The left-handed shot can play either center or wing, though he will likely slot in as the second-line center to reduce rookie Cal Ritchie’s responsibilities. His faceoff win percentage of 54.2 is the 25th best in the NHL.
His personality
Schenn, the Blues captain for three seasons, will be a solid off-ice addition to Islanders’ core group of veteran leaders. He has a reputation as a culture setter and helped the Blues lift the Stanley Cup in 2019.
His future
Schenn's dip in production this season (12 goals, 16 assists in 61 games) and an average, at best, defensive game, is somewhat troubling considering his age — he turns 35 in the offseason — and the fact he’s signed through 2028.
Andrew Gross joined Newsday in 2018 to cover the Islanders. He began reporting on the NHL in 2003 and has previously covered the Rangers and Devils. Other assignments have included the Jets, St. John’s and MLB.
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