Rumor: New York Islanders preparing for mega offer sheet

The New York Islanders find themselves in a tough spot. Even though the majority of their core is signed to long-term reasonable contracts, 5 of their forwards have no-trade clauses. This makes wheeling and dealing difficult when you have to sign your best player, Matthew Barzal. The soon-to-be restricted free-agent is in need of a huge contract extension and it turns out the first offer he receives may be from another team.


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According to sources connected to the Islanders, the team is expecting an offer-sheet to be presented to Matthew Barzal, and if he signs it, is well, another story. In all likelihood, the team will be the Montreal Canadiens who are not afraid of the bold move, as we all saw last season.

Barzal is 23, coming off his entry-level deal, and is blossoming into a superstar in the league. The Canadiens have the cap space to make the deal work and all their necessary draft picks in the coming years. With a goalie who isn't getting any younger and a roster in need of some top-end talent, it makes sense for the Habs to try and land Barzal.

A deal for the maximum years at $9 million is not out of the question for Barzal, who has 90-point potential. Keep an eye on the Habs, they are going to be one of the busiest teams at the draft and this upcoming off season.
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