New York Islanders Should Claim Defenseman Cody Franson

Having yet to find their defensive stride halfway through the season, now would be the perfect chance for the New York Islanders to claim Cody Franson off waivers.

On Monday afternoon, the Chicago Blackhawks officially announced that they were placing defenseman Cody Franson on waivers. Considering their defensive situation, there is no reason why the New York Islanders should not be interested.

Although Franson is an older player at 30-years-old, he would be a great addition to an Islanders blue line that has been struggling in their own end. Entering his 11^th year in the NHL, the defenseman has a career CF% of 50.2 and in this season alone is toting a 59.9.

The Blackhawks’ situation didn’t allow for another defenseman and Franson was the most expendable player available but there is no reason that he couldn’t have a positive impact on a team that often flounders in their zone. He would be especially valuable in a time when they are plagued by the injuries of key players like Johnny Boychuk and Calvin de Haan.

Franson is amongst the best of his teammates in player shots rates and has 7 points on the season so far, 2 more points that current Islanders veteran defenseman Dennis Seidenberg in 13 less games.

At 6’5’’ and 224lbs, Franson could also bring a physical nature that Islanders often lack. Against a tough Philadelphia Flyers, players like Josh Bailey had to step up and defend. The Islanders don’t need a goon by any stretch but it never hurts to have a bigger body to throw into the mix.

Franson’s contract also holds no risk. At 1 million through only the end of the current season, he would pose no threat to the Islanders’ team salary cap.

Next: Islanders Season On The Brink

Claiming Franson would not only bring a physical presence to the Islanders but it would more importantly add a strong possession player to the blue line. His offensive numbers might not be the strongest but point production has never been the problem for the 2017-2018 Islanders. He would be a serviceable defenseman in the absence of Boychuk and even after his return.