New York Islanders Top Unrestricted Free Agent Targets

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Apr 19, 2017; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; Toronto Maple Leafs forward Brian Boyle (24) carries the puck during the warm up in game four of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Washington Capitals at Air Canada Centre. Washington defeated Toronto 5-4. Mandatory Credit: John E. Sokolowski-USA TODAY Sports /

Toronto Maple Leafs: Brian Boyle

Brian Boyle is the second big man on this list. Just like Hanzal before him, he stands at 6’6″ and tips the scales at 244lbs. He’s a bit bigger than Hanzal.

He also costs less than Hanzal did. Or at least he did before he became an unrestricted free agent. His $2 million cap his and his 25 points in 75 games are justifiable.

At that rate, he costs less than both Casey Cizikas and Cal Clutterbuck by a healthy margin. That should speak volumes.

Boyle brings a big physical presence, something the New York Islanders undoubtedly remember from when Boyle was a part of the New York Rangers outfit between 2009 and 2014.

For such a physical player Boyle doesn’t get into significant penalty trouble. Last season he had a career-high 66 penalty minutes. But with a career-high six fighting majors, the minutes add up quickly.

Strength: See Martin Hanzal: “He’s really big.” He can still score and put up points.

Weakness: He isn’t anywhere near as prolific as the Islanders need for that second line center, but pushing him down to a fourth line role and Cizikas up to a third line makes sense. It at least justifies Cizikas’ pay rate.

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The unrestricted free agent class is pretty barren. These four represent the best of the best at center. My hope is that if Garth goes through free agency to get a center he goes for Sam Gagner. He ticks all of the proverbial boxes the Islanders need and could come cheap.