Lou Lamoriello's Likely Plan For Matt Martin Once Islanders Season Begins

The Islanders don't have to rush to make a decision on Matt Martin.

With the New York Islanders backs against the salary-cap ceiling, Matt Martin getting a contract out of his professional tryout seems unlikely. 

According to Puckpedia, New York only has $50,000 in available cap space, so offering Martin a one-year deal at the league minimum ($775,000) would still be way too much. 

But we know how much value Martin brings to the locker room -- whether he's playing or not -- and with the hole that Cal Clutterbuck leaves in the room, having the 35-year-old veteran around doesn't do any harm. 

Martin's had a strong camp, showcasing that the three separate injuries he sustained in 2023-24 are behind him. In the room, he's joking around with everyone, keeping things light. 

Vibes are important. 

If only there was a way for the Islanders to keep him around but not sign him. 

There is. 

All they have to do is keep him on his PTO to start the season. 

Per the rulebook, a player can stay on a PTO until the 2025 NHL Trade Deadline, which is March 7. 

And Lamoriello always says, "If you have time, use it."

Elongating PTOs has been a common tactic for the Islanders, who have previously used lengthy PTOs for former forward Stephen Gionta and development coach Dennis Seidenberg.

They tried to keep Luca Sbisa on his PTO, but, per the rulebook, if any player on a PTO gets offered an NHL contract by another team — the Anaheim Ducks in that case — they are free to sign him without the team on the PTO having a chance to match. 

If the Islanders keep Martin by going this route, he wouldn't be able to suit up for NHL games, but he will be able to practice, stay in the locker room, and attend team events.

Listen. Martin could win a job if he beats out Hudson Fasching and his $775,000, along with Julien Gauthier, who has had a great camp and his $787,500. 

It’s no secret that Martin has an immense team presence from his 13 seasons on the Island. 

There are still a handful of days left in training camp, so who knows who wins the final forward spot.  

Martin may still be signed to a contract by the Islanders.

Roy said it's a Lou decision. 

However, considering the Islanders’ limited financial and roster options, Martin staying on a PTO when the season begins is the most likely path forward.