New York Islanders John Tavares Staying or Going Confidence Meter

Billy Lewis

The biggest question mark for the New York Islanders this offseason is the future of Captain John Tavares. We’re less than a month away from July 1st, when Tavares can freely sign with other teams. And we have no idea what he’s thinking.

There’s no doubt that Tavares will be the most sought-after free agent and because of that his future with the Islanders is in the air. If Garth Snow was still in charge I would give it about a 40% chance that Tavares stays. But as we know, he isn’t in charge any longer.

Instead, the Islanders brought in Lou Lamoriello to run the team’s hockey operations. Within two weeks Lamoriello decided to let go of Snow and Doug Weight. And appointed himself as General Manager.

As GM Lamoriello brings in a history of success and that has to be music to Tavares’ ears. Finally, he’s got someone at the top of the organization that has a proven track record with three Stanley Cups and made it to the finals twice more.

Tavares has always appeared to be loyal, but it has been clear he wants to be part of a winner. The future seems much brighter with Lamoriello at the helm and now I feel there is about a 70% chance that Tavares stays with the Islanders.