New York Islanders head coach Barry Trotz says Josh Ho-Sang had "his best camp", despite the fact the team put him on waivers and sent him back to Bridgeport of the AHL before the regular season began.
"The reason being he was consistent. His attention to detail was much better," Trotz told Newsday. "It was a real tough decision on that organizationally. He's made strides. Every time he gets an opportunity at training camp or in the regular season, he's closer and closer.”
Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello agrees with that assessment, adding there simply wasn't enough space on the roster to keep Ho-Sang on Long Island at this time.
“He came in and did everything that you could ask of a player to try and win a spot,” Lamoriello said. “In my opinion, he was given every opportunity and it just did not work out and you have to make a decision.”
Ho-Sang has cleared waivers and will start the season in the AHL. He could be brought back later, should a spot open up due to injury or other reasons. The 23-year-old, who was drafted in the first round (24th overall) in 2014, has seven goals and 17 assists in 53 career NHL games. There's no question he has talent, but his attitude and lack of consistency has caused him to be passed over by the Isles for a roster spot in the past. However, both Trotz and Lamoriello insist that, this time, he simply didn't win a spot, despite looking much better at camp.
Source: Newsday Sports
