Drafting early again, the Islanders selected forward Michael Dal Colle with the fifth overall pick. Going for offense, Islander GM Garth Snow got it in the just turned 18-year old from Richmond Hill, Ontario who led the Oshawa Generals to first place in the Eastern Conference of the Ontario Hockey League (OHL) where he posted 39 goals and 56 assists totaling 95 points in 67 games.

Dal Colle posted two goals and two assists in five games while representing Canada at the U-18 Ivan Hlinka Memorial. Not only did he show marked improvement hiking his 15-33-48 in ’12-13 to 39-56-95 but also exploded for 20 points in the playoffs. Asked by TSN’s James Duthie if it was a statement, he said so and believes he’s ready to start with the Islanders. He also indicated that he spoke to John Tavares, who told him “Welcome to the Island.”

Listed at 6-2, 182, Dal Colle has good size and hands. Able to finish in front, he should be a fixture on the Islanders top line. Early observations from watching the highlight reel above, he looks like a guy who should finish on the power play.