On the Toronto Maple Leafs …
Jonas Siegel: Maple Leafs GM Lou Lamoriello said that forward Josh Leivo didn’t make a trade request.
Kristen Shilton: Tyler Bozak isn’t looking at his pending free agent status: “I’m sure when the time comes and I have to make a decision on what’s going to happen, or where it’s going to be or whatever it is, obviously family would be the first thing that would matter”
On the New York Islanders …
Arthur Staple of The Athletic: Islander GM Garth Snow isn’t that interested in giving up a lot of assets for a rental, preferring to do a “hockey deal” if he were to give up any of their first or second round picks.
Snow could part with later round picks to fill in any added depth.
The Islanders could use some help on the blue line. Ryan McDonagh has a year left at $4.7 million, and the Islanders could afford him. The Islanders need extra salary cap space to re-sign John Tavares, but they could still fit in McDonagh’s salary.
The Islanders have their first-round pick, as well as the Calgary Flames.
An Islanders-Rangers trade does seem unlikely though.
If it costs the Islanders a first-round pick, another high draft pick, and a one of their young defenseman, the Islanders should consider.
Five other options the could be fits for the Islanders.
Tyson Barrie – Colorado – The Islanders could use an offensive right handed defenseman. Ryan Pulock might be enough to get Barrie.
Petr Mrazek – Detroit – Pending RFA at $4 million. The Islanders would have to interested in bringing him next year.
Jean-Gabriel Pageau – Ottawa – Has three years left at $3.1 million per.
Michael Grabner – NY Rangers – The Rangers might be able to get a first-round pick for him due to his low cap hit – $1.65 million. Maybe the Islanders could get him for a second-round pick if the market isn’t too hot on him.
Matt Martin – Toronto – If the Maple Leafs are willing to retain salary, the Islanders might be interested in bringing the fan favorite back.
