New York Islanders Rumors: Josh Bailey Linked to Rebuilding Team

The New York Islanders are ready to move on from longtime forward Josh Bailey. It is a necessary move for them, as his play has dropped off and his cap hit is far too expensive. As a result, they are looking for trading partners, and according to The Fourth Period, the Chicago Blackhawks are linked to him.

It is quite easy to see why the Blackhawks are interested in acquiring Bailey. Since Bailey is a player who the Islanders need to move out and has an expensive contract, the Islanders will be forced to move out sweeteners to successfully trade him. With the Blackhawks rebuilding and having plenty of cap space, they are in a position to bring in a bad contract if it means landing draft picks and/or prospects.

In 64 games during the 2022-23 season, Bailey had eight goals, 17 assists, and a plus-3 rating. If acquired by the Blackhawks, he could work as a decent middle-six option for them. With that, the 1,057-game veteran would be a good mentor for the club's younger players.

Let's see if the Blackhawks' interest in Bailey leads to something from here.