Islanders: NHL Trade Rumors Roundup

It’s draft day and the rumors are swirling. Here’s a couple of rumors that may have an impact on the New York Islanders.

The Islanders don’t have any picks in the first two rounds so the trade market is more likely where we will be looking over the next couple of days rather than draft prospects. There were two rumors today from Darren Dreger that could impact the Islanders.

First, Patrik Laine is being shopped by Winnipeg. The Jets seem to be looking for either a number two center or a number two defender. While the Isles can’t offer a center, they could include Devon Toews, who is an RFA in the deal.

Yes, this is something the Islanders should be all over today. It would cost a ton to get him in here but it would be worth the steep price.

The 22-year-old already has 138 goals under his belt and he is a lock for double-digit power play goals every season. Put him on the right side with Mathew Barzal and let’s score some goals.

The other rumor, also courtesy of Darren Dreger, is regarding Tyler Johnson. The Lightning have some cap issues and at $5 million he could be a piece that they look to move to free up some room from their books.

He’s a year removed from a 29 goal season. Yes, he was only on pace for 18 goals this season but his minutes declined to just 14:33 as he moved to a depth role. Johnson can play all three forward positions but would make the most sense on the right side.

Johnson would cost significantly less to acquire in a trade, and against the cap as well. Don’t get it misconstrued, I would much rather have Laine than Johnson there’s no argument there. But if the only play is Johnson, I certainly wouldn’t be upset about adding a versatile piece like him to the top-six.