Islanders: 3 roster spots open for competition and who’s in the running

What three positions are currently open for competition on the New York Islanders roster? And who’s in the running for one of those spots?

The offseason has just begun, but like every year, the immediate thought is on how the New York Islanders roster will look next year. It’s the singular thought that will consume fans all offseason long.

It’s with that thought in mind that I put together this piece. It’s not a look at the entire roster for next year like Arthur Staple did for The Athletic (subscription required) just recently. I thought I’d focus on the spots that will be open for competition next season.

As it stands right now, there are three spots open for competition when training camp opens in September. So what are those spots and who are some of the internal candidates open for those positions?

Of course, based on how the Seattle expansion draft goes and how free agency shapes up the Islanders might have another spot or two to fill. But I’m assuming a few things here:

1. Nick Leddy is selected by Seattle and Lou finds a replacement in the UFA market.
2. Isles retain the services of all three main RFAs (Beauvillier, Pelech, Sorokin) and a few secondary RFAs.
3. Casey Cizikas also stays.