If the rest of this season goes a certain way for the Islanders, if they miss the playoffs or turn to some kind of retool at the trade deadline, it’s possible that Simon Holmstrom’s emergence could be the biggest positive to come from these 82 games.&nbsp;

The 23-year-old Swede was back in the top six on Tuesday night against the Rangers <a href="https://nypost.com/2024/12/01/sports/simon-holmstrom-ripping-it-in-second-stint-on-islanders-top-line/">for the first time since early December</a>, having earned the promotion midway through Sunday’s loss to Dallas.&nbsp;

Unlike nearly every other Islander, Holmstrom did not look to need the first period to wake himself up from the two-week break in that 4-3 defeat. He was all over the walls, winning battles, making plays. 

Patrick Roy has been reluctant to move Holmstrom back up in the lineup, knowing how productive he’s been with Jean-Gabriel Pageau and that things haven’t quite clicked when he’s been given chances on the top line.&nbsp;

Simon Homstrom’s s two-way game has always been solid, but it’s worth noting that has grown as well. So much so that there are implications beyond the Islanders. {ai:summary}<p>Simon Holmstrom, 23, has emerged as a key player for the Islanders this season, showing promise as they face potential playoff challenges. He recently returned to the top six against the Rangers, demonstrating strong performance and energy, unlike many teammates. </p><p>Coach Patrick Roy has been cautious in promoting Holmstrom, aware of his productivity with Jean-Gabriel Pageau, despite mixed results on the top line. #sports</p>

Exclusive | Simon Homstrom’s Islanders breakout could have even bigger payoff

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