Islanders Rumors: Oliver Wahlstrom Surfacing In Trade Rumors

Russ Macias of NYI Hockey Now recently speculated that the New York Islanders might look to move forward Oliver Wahlstrom, especially as the team grapples with a salary cap crunch ahead of the new season. 

Wahlstrom, who was made available by the Islanders at the end of last season, remains with the team after signing a new contract, but his standing within the organization has diminished. 

Struggling to regain form and confidence following an ACL injury, Wahlstrom has fallen out of favor with three successive coaches, which, combined with the Islanders' need to free up cap space after acquiring Maxim Tsyplakov, could make a trade increasingly likely.

Oliver Wahlstrom's first goal of the season is a BEAUTY! 😍#NHLStats: https://t.co/WqbUrZV1FK pic.twitter.com/yhEwMAMARM

— NHL (@NHL) November 8, 2023

Macias identified the Anaheim Ducks and Boston Bruins as potential trade partners for Wahlstrom. 

The Ducks, in the midst of a rebuild, have a need for right-wing depth and might see Wahlstrom as a low-risk, high-reward addition. 

With several mid-round draft picks available, Anaheim could offer one in exchange for Wahlstrom, providing the Islanders with some cap relief while giving Wahlstrom a chance to revitalize his career in a less pressurized environment. A move to the Ducks would allow them to evaluate his development and decide whether to keep him long-term or use him as a trade chip.

Alternatively, the Boston Bruins could be a more intriguing destination for Wahlstrom, Macias writes, given their recent losses of key wingers like Jake DeBrusk and Danton Heinen. 

As a Massachusetts native, Wahlstrom might find a good fit in Boston, where he could compete for a spot in the lineup and potentially contribute to the power play. Macias suggests that a player swap could be on the table, with the Bruins possibly offering depth defenseman Ian Mitchell, who could help address the Islanders' need for right-side defensive depth while giving Wahlstrom a fresh start with his hometown team.

Over his five-year career, the 24-year-old has recorded 34 goals and 33 assists for 67 total points across 193 games played.

Photo Credit: Jeff Curry-USA TODAY Sports