Islanders: The Case to Bring Travis Hamonic Back to Long Island

The New York Islanders have lost two solid defensemen from last year’s team. Can bringing back a player from the past, fix the Islanders problem?

Its crazy how much can change in a couple of months. The New York Islanders run to the Eastern Conference Finals was fueled by their team defense. Most people would say that the Islanders had seven good options on defense last season, but out of those seven, only four are currently in the fold next season.

Devon Toews departed by way of trade to Colorado, Johnny Boychuk was forced into retirement because of an eye injury, and Andy Greene is still a UFA. It is safe to say that the Isles are lacking depth on defense.

To fix this problem, the Islanders may have to dive into the free agency and there is one familiar name who is currently on the market as an unrestricted free agent. That name is Travis Hamonic. Remember him? The Islanders 53rd overall pick from the 2008 draft.

Hamonic last suited up for the blue and orange back in the 2016-2017 season. Then, he was traded on draft day 2017 to Calgary in exchange for a first-round pick (Noah Dobson) and two second-round draft picks (Ruslan Iskhov and Samuel Bolduc).

Hamonic was somewhat of a fan favorite over his seven seasons on Long Island, which started back in 2010-2011. He is the definition of a defensive defenseman and logs solid minutes for his team. Coaches match up Hamonic against the other team’s top forwards and his job is to shut them down.

The now 30-year-old just finished up his third season with the Flames and played extremely well for Calgary. His best season was 2018-2019 when he finished with a +21 plus/minus.

Obviously, Hamonic could be a huge help and asset to the Islanders moving forward. His veteran leadership, consistency, and style of play will help fill the voids that Toews and Boychuk left.

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Any team would love a player like Hamonic on their d-core. Only time will tell how Lou Lamoriello and the Isles front office will address the Islanders defensive personnel issue.

Isles Country: Do you think the Isles should try to bring back Hamonic for a second stint on the Island? Leave your comments below!

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