New York Islanders Contracts For Pending Restricted Free Agents

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NEW YORK, NY – OCTOBER 30: Shane Prince #11 of the New York Islanders celebrates his goal against the Toronto Maple Leafs during their game at the Barclays Center on October 30, 2016 in New York City. (Photo by Al Bello/Getty Images) /

Shane Prince

2017-18 AAV: $850,000

There is no reason to bring back Shane Prince. He’s an OK player, don’t get me wrong. But there’s no space for him in the Islanders 2018-19 lineup, as far as I see it.

Think about it for a second. The top six is set. And even if it wasn’t Shane Prince shouldn’t ever be considered to fit the role. Leaving the bottom six as a landing spot. But even then, there’s no space for Shane Prince.

With their current assets the Islanders third line next season should be something like Brock Nelson, Andrew Ladd/Anthony Beauvillier, and one of Kieffer Bellows/Josh Ho-Sang. The fourth line isn’t any clearer with Ross Johnston/Alan Quine/Tanner Fritz, Casey Cizikas and Cal Clutterbuck.

Can we say that Shane Prince is any better than the players on that list? No. Not one of them. Maybe Ross Johnston in terms of production. But in terms of the physical aspect of the game Shane Prince and his 5’10” 160lb frame aren’t scaring anyone.

Do the Islanders let him walk and get nothing in return? They shouldn’t. A team should never let a player walk for nothing unless letting the player do so frees up considerable cap space. Something that Prince and his $850,000 salary doesn’t do.

The Islanders should try to move Prince at the soonest possible opportunity. For anything, a sixth or seventh round even. That’s worth more to the Islanders than what Prince can give them going forward. If they can’t do so before the draft they should qualify him to extend the period of control over their asset and to try and find a new home.

Contract: none, please.