On the New York Islanders and Lou Lamoriello …
Steve Simmonds: When first talked Lamoriello about Larry Brooks’ initial report linking him to the Islanders he laughed about it. When asked Lamoriello on Saturday about it he didn’t laugh and wouldn’t comment.
Chris Botta: “The best thing about Lou Lamoriello likely joining #Isles is that, no matter how it’s spun, no matter how ridiculously ownership tries to placate Snow publicly, there will be no mistaking who is in charge. Lou will. He won’t have it any other way.”
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: If Lou Lamoriello joins the New York Islanders, it only makes sense that ownership gives him reins to the organization.
He must have control even if he doesn’t have the General Managers title – he “must have final say over personnel decisions.”
Lamoriello would bring, and demand accountability.
On the New York Rangers …
Larry Brooks of the NY Post: Boston University coach David Quinn remains a head coaching candidate for the Rangers. GM Jeff Gorton is believed to be waiting to speak with some NHL and/or AHL coaches who are still in the playoffs before making a final decision.
If the Rangers would think about trading either Kevin Hayes or Mika Zibanejad, believes it has to have a legit present or future top-four right-handed defenseman coming back. The Rangers would love to be able to land Winnipeg Jets Jacob Trouba but that likely isn’t possible.
The Calgary Flames have some extra defenseman and they could use some help at center. Dougie Hamilton could be available, but wonders if the Rangers would target Harvard junior Adam Fox.
Hayes is eligible to be an unrestricted free agent after next season. He is arbitration eligible and it could take a five-year deal at around $4.5 million to get him signed longer-term.
It’s doubtful that forward Ryan Spooner fits into the Rangers long-term plans. It could take around $3.5 million for the pending RFA on a one-year deal. They could re-sign him and then look to deal him at the trade deadline.