Second Rebuilding Team Linked To Islanders' Josh Bailey

The New York Islanders had to deal with a big drop-off in play by Josh Bailey this season while he still makes $5 million AAV. There was speculation as to whether the team would buy him out this offseason, but it appears like their solution is to dump him on a rebuilding team.

While Bailey has already been linked to the Chicago Blackhawks in a trade, the Arizona Coyotes have also joined the party, per David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. Both teams will be looking to take on more contracts and acquire assets like they did last season to not only help make their rebuild more successful, but to reach the cap floor.

Eventually the Coyotes have to flip a switch and expect their team to start winning and reach the playoffs again, but not next season as Bailey, despite his diminishing production, can slot in on the wing on the second or third line next season for the team. The 15-year veteran scored just eight goals and 25 points in 64 games, but has stayed generally healthy throughout his career, can pass the puck well, and is a clean and effective player. As there is very little chance he is back with the Islanders next season, I wouldn't doubt he is a trade deadline move for the Coyotes or Blackhawks next season.