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New York Islanders UFAs Likely to Leave

May 6, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders center John Tavares (91) and New York Islanders right wing Kyle Okposo (21) and New York Islanders defenseman Johnny Boychuk (55) stand for the national anthem before the first period of game four of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
May 6, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders center John Tavares (91) and New York Islanders right wing Kyle Okposo (21) and New York Islanders defenseman Johnny Boychuk (55) stand for the national anthem before the first period of game four of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Tampa Bay Lightning at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 30, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Islanders left wing Matt Martin (17) works out prior to game two of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 30, 2016; Tampa, FL, USA; New York Islanders left wing Matt Martin (17) works out prior to game two of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Amalie Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports /

Matt Martin

Cap Hit: $1.000 / Age: 27 / Points: 19

Matt Martin was an integral part in what was arguably the best fourth line in the entire National Hockey League. He, Cal Clutterbuck and Casey Cizikas terrorized opponents with their tireless pressing and constant hitting

Martin was actually the league leader with the most hits in the league in 2015-16. Recording an astounding 25.95 hits per 60 rating. Along with that the 27 year old is coming off a career year with 19 points in 80 games.

He’s played so well that a contract the size of Clutterbucks $2.75 million would not be unwarranted. But the issue would remain that GM Garth Snow only has limited resources in which to sign players. Along with eight unrestricted free agents like Matt Martin, there are another seven pending RFAs.

Next: The Islanders Are a Playoff Team.

With his combination of age and pedigree Martin would be the perfect asset for any team. As such Snow shouldn’t find a lack of suitors for the Windsor, Ontario native. But rather than letting Martin walk, Snow will most likely package him in a deal for a top tier defender or center.

It would be tough to see Matt Martin go. The partnership and work ethic personified by that fourth line was truly amazing to watch. But all good things must come to an end.

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