On the New York Islanders …
Andrew Gross of Newsday checks in with the New York Islanders. The makeover continues as New York needs defense and even goaltending help. Likely, defensive needs can be addressed in this draft. There exists a bevy of depth for a team that was near last in many defensive metrics.
“The draft, in of itself, is pretty defensemen heavy, which suits the Islanders,” said former Islanders goalie Kevin Weekes, now an analyst for the NHL Network. “It’s no secret their Achilles’ heel is their defense corps and the team’s ability to defend. For one thing, the draft should afford them the chance to get a few good defense prospects, if not a top one.”
Again, goalies and depth issues can be met either through draft, trade, or free agency. The urgency to improve is high to keep John Tavares.
Speaking of John Tavares
Chris Johnston of Sportsnet: Barry Trotz’s hiring impacts John Tavares and his decision process. How much?
“That’s something that really is in John’s mind,” Lamoriello said, when asked if the Trotz hiring could entice Tavares to sign a long-term deal with the Islanders. “We don’t know what he’s thinking, but certainly he’s a very important part of this franchise.”
Trotz expected to bring in Mitch Korn and at least one other assistant he has long connections with. That should play into Tavares’ mind as the negotiation window looms.
On the Pittsburgh Penguins …
Dan Kingerski of Pittsburgh Hockey Now reports that nothing has risen to a tangible level but rumors exists plenty. So far, the biggest name is Phil Kessel. However, the most information anyone can garner is that a trade is possibly a maybe at best.
Pittsburgh has managed to keep its $10 million or so in cap space in reserve. Not paying their restricted free agents yet carries risk but with players on the trade market — why not.
Jeff Skinner and Max Pacioretty linked at junctures should not surprise anyone. Pittsburgh finds a way to always be in these discussions and innuendo. The question lies in will Jim Rutherford pull the trigger.
