There’s a rumor that the New York Islanders have been pursuing Nazem Kadri. Would he be a good fit for this team or is this a reach?
It’s that time of year where the rumors start to leak out and speculation runs rampant. Today we take a look at a rumor from a former NHL scout who says the New York Islanders have been pursuing Nazem Kadri.
It’s no secret that the Maple Leafs are pressed when it comes to cap space. They’re going to have to free up some space if they want to keep Mitch Marner around long-term. Kadri is one of the guys rumored to be on the move and it makes sense as he carries a $4.5 million cap hit for the next three years.
Last year, in 73 games, Kadri had 44 points (16 goals, 28 assists). The two previous years he had 55 points or more with exactly 32 goals each season. Kadri, who plays center, would likely be the third line center option for the Islanders if they pulled off a deal like this.
If Lou Lamoriello nabs Kadri, it shouldn’t take an astronomical price to land him either, he would fit right in on the Isles third line replacing Val Filppula who is a UFA come July 1. Kadri will turn 29 right at the start of the season, keeping him under contract until his age 31 season.
$4.5 million also seems like a fair price for someone who will get you over 40 points and has a shot to eclipse the 50 point mark and give you close to 30 goals in a good year. This move would give the Islanders better depth scoring and better depth down the middle, which they need desperately.
I’m all for this rumor unless this is the only move. Kadri can’t be the only piece the Islanders bring in. It would have to be Kadri and another top-six type of scorer like Jeff Skinner or Artemi Panarin. Then, I would be satisfied with the Islanders offseason.
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