Lou Lamoriello Addresses Speculation About Anders Lee Future With Islanders

It was a tough year in 2023-24 for New York Islanders captain Anders Lee. After a 37-point season some around the Island were questioning whether the 34-year-old would still be around for the final two years of his $7 million cap hit contract. He was only handed 15:34 of ice time per game last year, his lowest playing time in eight years.

On the other hand, his leadership and off-ice contributions speak volumes for the 12-year veteran, who was honored after the season with the league's King Clancy Memorial Trophy for leadership qualities and humanitarian contributions in the community.

And then there's Islanders GM Lou Lamoriello, who told Arthur Staple of The Athletic this week that he is more than happy to have Lee as his captain.

You’re talking about a consummate pro: high integrity, high character, team first. I’d say he was one of our better players in the playoffs. That should answer any questions you might have — how he responded to whatever role he was asked to play.

Indeed, in the Isles' short playoff run, Lee recorded four points in five games, laid out 13 hits, and had about an extra minute of ice time per game compared to the regular season.

Lee did record a career-best 176 hits this past season, and has been a warrior for the club, recording at least 20 goals in all but one of his nine complete seasons with the Islanders, and playing at least 76 games in eight of those nine.

Safe to say he isn't going anywhere at this point.