The New York Islanders do not have a lot of cap space to work with, and everyone knows that. So, the Islanders might have to pick up some underrated forwards for the 3rd year in a row. Sadly, this article will not cover optimistic topics like Mike Hoffman and Patrik Laine. This article will cover 3rd liners and possible 2nd liners. There are three underrated free-agent options I can see the Isles targeting this year.
Three potential free-agent options for the New York Islanders:
Matt Nieto
Matt Nieto is one of the fastest guys in the league, but no one knows it. Nieto recorded eight goals and 13 assists for the Avalanche this season and is fully in prime form. Though these aren’t impressive numbers, he is still a solid forward option. He’s a great two-way forward and fits Barry Trotz’s system. Nieto could perfectly fill in the third line winger spot with Pageau and Kieffer Bellows on his side.
Erik Haula
I’ve wanted to see Haula be traded to the Isles for such a long time. Haula is such an underrated forward. He brings so much grit to every team he’s been on. Haula is also a bit of a goal scorer. If Haula was able to play a full 68 games this year, he was on pace for 20 goals. As a matter of fact, just two years ago, Haula recorded 29 goals and 26 assists while missing six games. I would love to see Lamoriello make this signing.
Bobby Ryan
Yes, you heard me clearly, I would love to see the Isles sign, Bobby Ryan. Ryan just had his contract bought out by the Ottawa Senators today. Bobby Ryan is poised for at least another two good seasons. He’s a great Hockey player, and great Hockey players always find a way to get it done. Although Ryan has missed a ton of time as of late, he should be ready to step up his play. The contract would be cheap, and it would be up to Ryan to prove his worth on the ice. It’s a low risk, high reward for the Isles.