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New York Islanders Re-Signing Dennis Seidenberg is Unnecessary

By Rebecca Attard
Mar 27, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Nashville Predators center Craig Smith (15) and New York Islanders defenseman Dennis Seidenberg (4) fight for the puck during the third period at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Mar 27, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; Nashville Predators center Craig Smith (15) and New York Islanders defenseman Dennis Seidenberg (4) fight for the puck during the third period at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New York Islanders re-signing defenseman Dennis Seidenberg has lead to a wave of speculation from Isles fans. Is Garth Snow working on a trade involving a defenseman? Or are the Islanders just stacking up on blue liners because of the upcoming expansion draft?

Dennis Seidenberg signed a one year $1.25 million deal with the New York Islanders, that’s a $250k raise from last year. If you ask me, this signing was unnecessary and typically unexpected of Garth Snow. That’s one that leads to a boatload of ‘whys’ and speculation theories.

New York Islanders

Don’t get me wrong, I think Seidenberg had a good year with the Isles posting over 20 points on the season. But I can’t help but feel that the 35-year-old is taking the roster spot of a promising young defenseman. Why is this team so reluctant to give some young prospects a chance?

With the young Isles defensemen showing such poise and promise, why not give them a shot at being regulars. Pelech and Mayfield have already proved themselves to be NHL caliber defensemen. So much that they started to force themselves into the lineup.

Where does this signing leave them for next season? Because if Ryan Pulock is healthy he’s going to be a regular, at least that’s what we’re hoping for. It’s also important to note that Devon Toews of the Bridgeport Soundtigers had a great season including an AHL all-star appearance. When does he get his shot?

Which begs the question, is Snow working on a trade that’s going cost the blue and orange a blue liner? If so, I can see how this signing might benefit the Islanders down the stretch. The NHL season is grueling and takes a toll on defensemen, that’s excluding any injuries. And even more so if the Isles lose another defenseman in the expansion draft.

Next: Islanders Playoff History A Year Ago Today

However I still believe that we have enough depth on defense to account for losing one to Vegas. Seidenberg does offer veteran presence having a Stanley Cup Championship under his belt. But it’s time to let young talent flourish.

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