3 Potential Landing Spots For Center Casey Cizikas

Casey Cizikas is a very popular pending unrestricted free agent. Although he is not known for producing a lot of offense, he is an immensely effective defensively. He has plays with a bit of grit, which is always a nice element for a bottom-six forward to have. He not only has been the true heart of the Islanders' fourth-line, but also one of their top penalty killers in the process.

All of these factors will make Cizikas have a lot of suitors this off-season if he officially becomes a free agent. These three teams should look to sign him.

New York Islanders: The New York Islanders will certainly try to bring back Cizikas because of his importance to the team. When looking at how well the Islanders have played these last few seasons, it is easy to believe Cizikas wants to return, too. However, the Islanders have limited cap space and three big-time RFAs in Ilya Sorokin, Adam Pelech and Anthony Beauvillier to bring back, too. Thus, they need to get creative to get cap space for a Cizikas extension to come into fruition.

New York Rangers: It would sure be hard for Islanders fans to see Cizikas sign with the New York Rangers. Yet, he is exactly the type of bottom-six forward they need. He not only would give them a defensively sound bottom-six center, but also great leadership because of his vast experience. Keep in mind, the Rangers are still very young and could use a veteran to help guide them. Plus, they need more depth down the middle.

Boston Bruins: The Bruins experienced how clutch of a player Cizikas is this postseason. He scored the OT winning goal in Game 2 against them after a smart defensive play on his end. With the Bruins on the verge of losing Sean Kuraly to free agency, Cizikas would be a serious upgrade. The Bruins also are expected to have a good amount of cap space to work with, so the possibility is on the table if he hits the market.