Could we see an Islanders defenseman be on the move this trade deadline season?
While New York Islanders pending unrestricted free-agent forwards Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri are the two big names who could be on the move this trade deadline season, could we see one of their signed blue-liners be on the move?
A few days ago, NHL insider Nick Kypreos shared that Islanders right-side defenseman Scott Mayfield was a player who the Toronto Maple Leafs would be interested in if he became available.
Despite six years remaining on his deal, Mayfield's $3.5 million cap hit is completely manageable, and for a player who eats minutes, blocks shots, and can play on the penalty kill, he could be a solid addition to a team trying to bolster their blueline for a deep playoff run.
Mayfield has a full no-trade clause, like two other Islanders defensemen.
Right-side defenseman Ryan Pulock, who has been playing impressive hockey as of late, is in the third year of an eight-year deal worth $6.15 million. Left-side defenseman Adam Pelech, who is also in the third year of an eight-year deal, carries an annual cap hit of $5.75 million.
If Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello was willing to move either of the three, there would be a list of teams calling to inquire.
However, there's one playoff team that just filled their blue line and that's the Edmonton Oilers.
On Friday, they signed free-agent right-side defenseman John Klingberg, who had been recovering from a long-term hip injury that required surgery.
That certainly eliminates them as a potential suitor for an Islanders defenseman.
As mentioned, the Maple Leafs still need a defenseman, as well as the banged-up Ottawa Senators.
I wouldn't be shocked if Lamoriello's phone line has been ringing quite a bit.
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