Isles Select Josh Bailey 9th Overall

The Islanders have selected Josh Bailey with the 9th overall pick after dropping down twice from fifth and seventh. TSN called it a safe pick. We will need a few years to realize if the Islanders did the right thing by making a safe pick or if they blew it by not selecting Schenn or Filatov.

Bailey did have a very impressive 67 assists last year which was second most in the entire CHL. First impression is that he may be more of a set up man, possibly down the line for Kyle Okposo perhaps.

From TSN: Regarded as a skilled playmaker, the Windsor Spitfire centre is a good, solid two-way player who is conscientious in his effort at all times although scouts would like to see a little more grit to his game.

From NHL Central Scouting: Josh is the quarterback on the power-play, from down low, for the Windsor Spitfires. He is a good play-making centerman with the ability to feed his linemates when he needs to and shoot the puck when the play requires that.

RLR: Hart and soul type of player every good team needs. Has excellent leadership intangibles and was a big key in the massive turnaround by the Spits this year. We've always liked his work ethic, leadership, and sound defensive game, but he elevated his offensive game in a big way this year. Terrific playmaking center with the ability to get his wingers the puck in good scoring positions - has a knack for holding onto it that extra split second to give his mates time. Good vision and can saucer touch passes through traffic off either wing. Plays with smarts in all three zones. Strong in puck pursuit on the forecheck, but would boost his stock if he'd add a physical element to his game and finish off more checks.

THN: Bailey exploded for 96 points in Windsor after posting just 26 and 61 points in his first two years, but the concensus is he won't be a big offensive producer as an NHL player. However, in a draft that is overflowing with safe draft picks, Bailey is viewed as one of the most reliable in the group. "He's just a smart and responsible two-way player," one scout said. "I'd think in the NHL he'd probably max out as a 60 point guy." Bailey had to deal with the death of teammate and friend Mickey Renaud, but even though they were close, it didn't affect his performance. He's regarded as a low-maintenance player who could be future captain material and will be a mainstay on the checking line and penalty-killing unit. Think Matt Stajan. "He's a smooth skater," another scout said, "but I don't see the skill set of a high-end offensive player."

Compared in talent to Cory Stillman.

Revised 2008 Islanders Picks

1st round - 9th overall: C Josh Bailey
2nd round - 36th overall
2nd round - 40th overall
2nd round - 53rd overall*
2nd round - 60th overall (or 3rd round, 68th)
3rd round - 66th overall
3rd round - 73rd overall~
4th round - 96th overall
5th round - 126th overall
5th round - 148th overall^
6th round - 156th overall
6th round - 175th overall#

Total: 12 selections