8. Ryan Strome (Forward – New York Islanders)
Ryan Strome

 

Ryan Strome– Right Wing

2015 – 16 Cap Hit: $863,333
Age: 22
Drafted: 5th overall in 2011

The Isles fifth overall pick in 2011 took a major step back after scoring 50 points two years ago. The 22-year-old Strome scored just eight goals in 71 games last season and was given a wake-up call by GM Garth Snow and head coach Jack Capuano by being demoted to the American Hockey League in November.

New York has impressive forward prospects in Josh Ho-Sang, Michael Dal Colle and Mathew Barzal who could challenge for a job in Brooklyn as soon as next fall, which would give Snow flexibility to move Strome for future assets if they do not think he can replace UFA’s Kyle Okposo or Frans Nielsen.