As most of you already know, Nino Niederreiter has been sent back to the Portland Winterhawks of the Western Hockey League by the New York Islanders. This move was an expected move and a smart move by the Isles.
'El Nino' had certainly not looked out of place in his nine games with the Islanders this season, scoring one goal and two assists, but the Islanders this season have plenty of NHL-caliber forwards that can fill his spot and help the team win now. Micheal Grabner, who was claimed off of waivers from Florida before the season began has showed he and his incredible speed belong on this team every night is currently resting a groin injury, Rob Schremp is soon to return from a back injury that his kept him out of the lineup so far this year, and eventually Kyle Okposo will return from his shoulder surgery as well. Trent Hunter and Matt Martin can be added into the equation as well.
With all of those NHL-ready forwards, the big 18 year old Niederreiter can afford to be sent back to juniors for another year to gain some more experience. He has only played one season of junior hockey to begin with. Giving him another year can only help his development.
This is a win-win situation for all involved. The Islanders can win games with or without Nino in the lineup, Nino gets to dominate in juniors for another year, and even the Winterhawks win out as well because now they get their big 18 year old forward back to score them some more goals. Overall, this situation was handled excellently by the Islanders.
Rob Schremp is on the comeback trail. He will be going to the Bridgeport Soundtigers of the AHL for a conditioning stint, starting tomorrow night against Manchester. He practiced with the Islanders yesterday for the first time since training camp. Rob injured his back in camp and has been out of the lineup since.
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