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New York Islanders Seven Trade Worthy Power-Forwards

By Tim Stevenson
Dec 16, 2016; Buffalo, NY, USA; New York Islanders left wing Josh Bailey (12) takes a shot as Buffalo Sabres center Johan Larsson (22) pursues during the first period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 16, 2016; Buffalo, NY, USA; New York Islanders left wing Josh Bailey (12) takes a shot as Buffalo Sabres center Johan Larsson (22) pursues during the first period at KeyBank Center. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Hoffman-USA TODAY Sports /
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May 14, 2017; Anaheim, CA, USA; Nashville Predators right wing James Neal (18) and Anaheim Ducks right wing Jakob Silfverberg (33) battle for the puck during the third period in game two of the Western Conference Final of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports
May 14, 2017; Anaheim, CA, USA; Nashville Predators right wing James Neal (18) and Anaheim Ducks right wing Jakob Silfverberg (33) battle for the puck during the third period in game two of the Western Conference Final of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelvin Kuo-USA TODAY Sports /

James Neal

James Neal is coming off a strong year of 23 goals 18 assists 41 points in 70 games played. After a magical run to the cup that fell just short of the Grail, Neal was chosen off of Nashville’s roster by Las Vegas in the 2017 expansion draft.

He also has a modified NMC with an eight-team no trade clause, so it’s unclear if he is really available to us. If he is though, bet your bottom dollar Vegas is willing to move him.

He’s a proven 30 goal scorer at age 29. Since he has only one year left on his five million dollar deal, if he’s not traded in the offseason he’ll probably get shopped at the deadline as a rental.

He’s competitive, feisty, physical, a solid all around wing with scoring touch and a right-handed shot. Not to mention a bunch of playoff experience. It’s the last year on Neal’s contract so he’ll be playing to determine the size of next year’s paycheck.

The Trade

Vegas gets 24 year old Shane Prince and his $850,000 salary. The young winger still has potential, and will probably solidify into a bottom six forward. It’s low risk, Vegas gets younger, and saves over four million dollars.

The “new guys” also stack draft picks, including a coveted 1st rounder. The Knights know they’re building for the future and they’ve already shown their desire to gain draft opportunities.

We get Neal. Dirty, greasy, hardworking, elbow tossing Neal. This could be a great fit; it might even turn into a contract extension knowing Garth…but Neal isn’t as young as some of the other options. Still, he’s not as old as the next player…

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