The New York Islanders advanced out of the first round for the first time since 1993, so in that regard, this year showed progress.

John Tavares had a big postseason and reminded everyone why he should be in the conversation with Jonathan Toews, Sidney Crosby and Anze Kopitar as the league’s best centers and leaders.

Still, this exit has a feeling of missed opportunity by the Islanders. The Tampa Bay Lightning played short-handed without two of their best players. And there’s a good chance the Islanders look fairly different next season.

It has the potential to be a busy summer for general manager Garth Snow. Here’s where he should focus: