New York Islanders Starting Lineup of Traded Draft Picks

Center – Colin White

Draft: 2015 1st Round 18th Overall

In the acquisition of Thomas Vanek from the Buffalo Sabres, Garth Snow gave up a kings ransom. In total Matt Moulson a lottery protected 1t round pick in 2014, and a second-round pick in 2015.

Vanek hated the idea of going to Brooklyn and wanted out. He even refused a seven-year $50 million contract from the Isles. Had he signed, Vanek would have been paid $50 million until the 2020-21 season.

Since his move from Long Island and away from the Barclays Center, he’s been paid $22.1 instead of the possible $28.56 million he could have made, he’s been bought out, and is now playing for one-year deals.

I’m not saying the Isles didn’t luck out, I’m just wondering if hating the Barclays center was worth the $27.88 he eventually left on the table?

Anyways, the 2014 first-round pick the Buffalo Sabres got from the Islanders was lottery protected. With the Isles making the cut for the lottery with a 34-37-11 record and eighth in the Metropolitan that pick was deferred to 2015.

The pick eventually moved to the Ottawa Senators after Buffalo traded for Robin Lehner. Ottawa would pick Colin White. A player that was over a point per game in the NCAA and that has 27 in 43 at the AHL level this season.

Even with Barzal in tow, the Islanders are still in need of depth at center. I know Beauvillier is a natural centerman, but he’s looked great on the wing so far this season. Having Colin White in the system would immediately make Brock Nelson and his pending UFA status obsolete.