3 Offseason Targets For New York Islanders

The New York Islanders have a number of players on expiring contracts, whether that be upcoming UFAs or RFAs. I don't expect all of their RFAs to get contract offers and some of their UFAs will leave. This team isn't ready for a rebuild, but could get back into contention with the right moves. They have to make those to help out some of the key players signed long term. This is yet another team with not much room to upgrade defensively or in net, so they'll have to utilize their opportunity at forward to rebound.

Nikolaj Ehlers

Nikolaj Ehlers seems like he will become one of the most sought after forwards this summer. The Islanders should most definitely be in on the hunt as they need production. Ilya Sorokin is still a very good goalie and with a healthy d-core, the team should be able to shut down opponents. This means they just need more scoring and Ehlers just had a career year even though he is now injured. His speed should fit in nicely in the top-6 and he is right in his prime.

Jeff Skinner

Jeff Skinner wouldn't be a major addition, but could be a solid third line winger with potential for more. We've seen how well he's played down the stretch for the Edmonton Oilers and he still has the ability to score. He won't cost a whole lot to sign and may not be targeted by too many teams. He is an 11-time 20 goal scorer, five-time 30 goal scorer, and one-time 40 goal scorer. He's worth a look for a team that struggles to score.

Mikael Granlund

Mikael Granlund is sneakily one of the best targets a team can go for in free agency and it doesn't look like the Dallas Stars will be able to bring him back. He is fourth among upcoming UFAs in points and is able to play center or the wing. He has had a great couple of seasons since the Pittsburgh Penguins traded him, even on a bad team like the San Jose Sharks. He is going to get paid, even at age 33, but he is worth it right now.