Islanders Should Take a Look at Predators Mikael Granlund

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LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA – OCTOBER 12: Mikael Granlund #64 of the Nashville Predators skates after the puck during a 7-4 Los Angeles Kings win at Staples Center on October 12, 2019 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /

Trade Target: Mikael Granlund

The Predators picked up Granlund when they were Stanley Cup contenders at last season’s trade deadline. Granlund largely disappointed down the stretch with only five points in 16 regular season games, and two points in six playoff games. This season has been even worse for Granlund, a pending UFA.

Granlund has missed the Predators’ past two games with a lower-body injury. The injury is not serious and Granlund will be expected to return soon. Prior to the injury, Granlund had recorded just 11 points in 26 games. This includes a 12-game point-drought he suffered from 10/15 to 11/9. Granlund has picked it up lately, though, recording seven points in his past nine games.

Furthermore, over the past three seasons, Granlund has recorded 69, 67 and 54 points. If Granlund returns to form, he could provide a much-needed boost to the Islanders’ offense. He would also slot in nicely as the third-line center, a spot vacated following Brassard’s move to the wing. In addition, Granlund has experience on the wing and could play there as needed.

Fortunately for the Isles, Granlund may be available. The Predators have struggled throughout the season and currently sit one point out of last place in the Central Division. Of course, a lot can change between now and February, but if the Predators continue to struggle, they may be looking to sell at the deadline.

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So far, Granlund’s name has not come up in trade rumors, but as we start to get closer to February, it’ll be interesting to see if the Preds make him available.