New York Islanders Top Unrestricted Free Agent Targets

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Feb 16, 2017; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders left wing Andrew Ladd (16) celebrates his goal against the New York Rangers with teammates during the second period at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

New York Islanders still have a hole at the second line center position. If the Isles are looking at unrestricted free agents here are four names they could consider.

The New York Islanders added a big name winger with a trade for Jordan Eberle. But that still leaves a second line center position they need to fill.

Since the departure of Frans Nielsen in the 2016 Free Agency frenzy, the Islanders have been looking for that number two center.

They tried Ryan Strome at that position. It didn’t work out, and he’s now in Edmonton thanks to that Eberle trade. They tried Brock Nelson at center and it didn’t work that well either. At this point, it’s clear that Brock is a good marauding winger.

That’s not a knock. It’s a clear and visible strength of his. But Nelson is best served at wing and not at center.

The Isles could put Mathew Barzal in the middle on that second line, but I favor giving him an easier third line assignment in what might be his first NHL season. Give him the chance to succeed with good ice-time and easier opposition.

Which leaves a whole in the middle on the Isles second line. Here are a few options the Isles could consider if they choose to go down the free agency route.