Islanders: Insiders Get ‘Positive Vibes’ From Barzal Negotiations

TORONTO, ONTARIO - AUGUST 20: Mathew Barzal #13 of the New York Islanders warms up prior to Game Five of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Washington Capitals during the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on August 20, 2020 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)
TORONTO, ONTARIO - AUGUST 20: Mathew Barzal #13 of the New York Islanders warms up prior to Game Five of the Eastern Conference First Round against the Washington Capitals during the 2020 NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs at Scotiabank Arena on August 20, 2020 in Toronto, Ontario. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Mathew Barzal needs a new deal from the New York Islanders, but don’t worry both sides have had constant communication.

One of the last things the Islanders have to get done before the season is signing Mathew Barzal. It’s a very big item left, as Barzal is clearly their most important player, but it’s not something I’m worried about.

Once the plan for the 2021 season is fully finalized I expect to see some sort of movement on that contract. A portion of the fans are concerned with the lack of movement but to that, I’d like to quote Aaron Rodgers and say “R-E-L-A-X.”

It’ll get done, they just need some time. NHL Insider, Pierre LeBrun is not concerned in the slightest saying he’s gotten “positive vibes” from Barzal’s agent:

Lou Lamoriello has been in constant communication with the agent, which is a fantastic sign. I also like how they’ve discussed both short and long-term deals for Barzal, a bridge deal of sorts seems most likely.

Expect to see Barzy sign for two to three years at an AAV roughly around $7 million. Also, keep In mind the team has to figure out what they’re doing with Andrew Ladd as well.

Whether or not he can be put on LTIR may be a factor in why this is taking a while to get done for the Islanders. The moral of the story, don’t sweat it. I fully expect him to be in camp when it gets underway in a few weeks with a fresh new deal.

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Also, you can absolutely expect to see Andy Greene, Matt Martin, and Cory Schneider’s deals become official before training camp officially opens. Lamoriello plays it close to the vest, so don’t worry so much about the fact that the team has been quiet. He has a plan.

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