After being called to duty by the Isles, Ryan Pulock looks to impress in his NHL debut.
#Isles Transaction: Ryan Pulock has been recalled from loan (Bridgeport).
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) February 22, 2016
In the wake of defenseman Calvin De Haan’s injury and subsequent placement on IR, the New York Islanders have called up former first round draft pick Ryan Pulock.
The Islanders are in the midst of a tight division battle to finish the season, a time where every point matters. So, GM Garth Snow hopes a timely call-up of a phenom can provide a spark for his team.
Ryan Pulock hits the ice for practice. #Isles pic.twitter.com/WOyHcQ6iTM
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) February 22, 2016
Pulock, 21, has shown keen defensive awareness to compliment his intimidating size and powerful slapshot since being drafted by the Isles 15th overall in 2013’s draft. In two seasons with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers (the Islanders AHL affiliate), the young Canadian has racked up 30 points in 57 games played, including 17 goals. Not exactly “wow” numbers from a top-pick known for his offense, but, still serviceable numbers with tons of room to approve.
Not to mention, with Travis Harmonic requesting a trade from the Isles for personal reasons in the past months, the Islanders will likely be in need of a stalwart defenseman to replace Hammer. Simply put, Marek Zidlicky and Brian Strait are not doing the job on a nightly basis, so Pulock will hopefully provide much-needed stability following the Leddy-Boychuk line.
Look for Pulock to amaze Isles Nation in Minnesota when they battle the Wild on Tuesday night.
