Could the Islanders end up trading their captain?

There were rumors last summer that New York Islanders captain Anders Lee could be a buyout candidate after struggling in 2023-24. 

But, after a strong offseason, working with Adam Oates to strengthen his game, the 34-year-old is in the midst of a resurgence. 

After scoring in their 3-2 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins, Lee has three goals over his last two games, leading the team with 16 goals. 

Is it time to include Lee in trade talks?

With the team needing to get younger and a lack of NHL-ready prospects, they need to seriously consider moving valuable players who aren't part of their future. 

Unlike Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri, Lee is not an unrestricted free agent with one more year left on his deal with $7 million annually. 

Like Nelson, Palmieri, and Jean-Gabriel Pageau -- he has one year left at $5 million annually--Lee has positive trade value if the Islanders indeed go the selling route.

Because of his salary cap hit, the Islanders would likely have to retain his salary, potentially 50 percent ($3.5 million) in a deal.

Lee's move would be more about clearing cap space than a return, but a second-round pick and another late-round selection could be the return. 

However, if a team thinks Lee could replicate his current performance next season, there's value in having a leader and a 25-plus goal scorer on their roster. 

Lee has a 15-team no-trade clause. 

While it would be a shock to see Lee leave, it's certainly worth asking him if he would consider a move.