More photos » by John Dunn - AP

Browse more photos »

Who's in: Martin Biron, Dwayne Roloson, John Tavares
Who's out: Yann Danis, Andy Hilbert, Joey MacDonald, Dean McAmmond, Thomas Pock, Mike Sillinger

Outlook: Even with 19-year-old wunderkind John Tavares joining the roster as – after bonuses – the team's highest paid forward, GM Garth Snow opted to keep the Isles payroll right near the salary floor heading into this season.

Off-season additions of note came only in goal, as both Dwayne Roloson and Martin Biron joined the fold and offer some real insurance should Rick DiPietro again be unavailable to start the season (a distinct possibility given his continued knee woes).

That, combined with better luck in the injury department – especially on the blueline – should allow New York to begin to climb out of the basement in the goals against department, although there are likely to be more than a few long nights again given the youth involved here. Mark Streit meanwhile should once again be a stabilizing force on the back end and will have more support from a healthier cast.

Up front, the changes are minimal, as even greybeard Doug Weight has signed on to serve as mentor for Tavares and company. Youngsters like Kyle Okposo (provided he can return from a big hit sustained in preseason), Josh Bailey and Blake Comeau will make some gains but dont expect any miracles.

They'll be welcoming another high draft pick to the fold come next summer anyway.

X-factor: Kyle Okposo

For a more in-depth Isles preview, visit Lighthouse Hockey
For more NHL analysis, check out the McKeen's Hockey Yearbook