New York Islanders UFAs Likely to Leave

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Apr 30, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Islanders right wing Kyle Okposo (21) during the second period of game two of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Kyle Okposo

Cap hit: $2.800 / Age: 28 / Points: 64

Okposo is coming off a strong year with 64 points over 79 games. The gritty winger made a dynamic pairing with team captain John Tavares on the top line for much of the regular season. Putting him at the top of the free agency class for this upcoming offseason.

The 6’0 tall 218 lbs is the prototypical power forward. He’s tough to play against and, more importantly, he can score. Okposo has 184 points over his last three seasons. That means he will have a number of suitors looking for his signature leading up to July 1st.

He’s likely to get a significant pay raise from his current $2.8 million average cap hit. It’s been hinted that Okposo is looking for a deal around $6m. A price that is likely too high for GM Garth Snow to consider.

Trading Okposo before he hits the open market would make sense. His stock is at its pinnacle so the return could be fairly substantial. At the top of the GM’s list would be a top four defenceman.

But regardless of whether he’s traded or left to the market, ultimately Okposo is not likely to be in the Orange and Blue of the Islanders to start the 2016-17 season.

Next on the list is Okposo’s fellow linemate and alternate captain; Frans Nielsen.

Next: Frans Nielsen