2 Contenders Linked To Islanders' Pageau

The New York Islanders could be sellers this season, and if they are, J.G. Pageau is a player that will likely be moved. There is already interest in him by the Edmonton Oilers and Vegas Golden Knights as reported by Stefen Rosner.

The Oilers are one of the best defensive teams in the league, but sometimes their goaltending can sink them. That shouldn't stop them from pursuing a strong two-way forward in Pageau that has been shutting opposing players and lines down his entire career.

The Oilers constantly alter their lines, but could solidify their bottom-6 with another defensively-minded right-shot center that also kills penalties. This would give the Oilers a great mix of players and even more depth than they already have. It would also allow Ryan Nugent-Hopkins to stay in the top-6 and not move to the third line center at times. There would have to be salary retention, but the Oilers and Islanders aren't strangers to making trades.

The Golden Knights are always looking to upgrade and now Shea Theodore was just injured in the 4 Nations Face-Off. This could open up the cap space Vegas needs to make another significant add leading into playoffs. With some injuries up front, bringing in a player like Pageau would be very good for them. The Golden Knights would not need much cap space retained, if any, and if the team is healthy by playoffs, it is a dangerous roster.

Pageau has another year left on his contract at $5 million AAV and has a 16-team no-trade clause. It's not very likely that the Oilers and Golden Knights are on that no-trade list as they are both serious contenders and should remain that way. The 32-year-old has 10 goals and 27 points this season and has a very good goals for %. His name should pick up traction closer to the trade deadline if the Islanders remain out of a playoff spot.

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