3 New York Islanders free agent targets to reach next level in 2025-26

Mikael Granlund

I’m all for making big splashes as long as they are calculated moves. The New York Islanders, with a little over $20 million in cap space, could have some of that allocated toward a bigger signing.

That’s why I think Mikael Granlund could be one player the Isles need to reach the next level in 2025-26. He’s a solid top-six winger and could suit up on the top line with Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat, or slide down on the second line and spread the wealth, so to speak.

Granlund won’t come cheap.

He’s coming off a four-year $20 million deal. My guess is he gets at least that much on his next deal even though he’s 33. Given that this year’s free-agent class is on the weaker side, Granlund could cash in.

If the Isles could land Granlund on a three-year deal in the $5 to $6 million range, he could be the answer to the team’s depth scoring needs.

Brock Boeser

So, time to make a splash.

Brock Boeser has been the subject of speculation throughout the offseason. He’s unlikely to return to the Vancouver Canucks this offseason despite all the politically correct comments in the media.

Boeser will be looking to cash in. He’s a year removed from a 40-goal season and looks strong at 28. We could chalk up his regression this past season to the overall mess in Vancouver. Having a stable environment in Long Island would help Boeser settle back into his top goal-scoring form.

Plus, reuniting Boeser with Horvat makes sense for both player and team.

My concern is Boeser’s ask. He’ll likely want a seven-year deal with an AAV of at least $6.5 million. His AAV would be higher on a shorter-term deal.

I’m not sure he’s worth a seven-year pact, but if the AAV comes down to about $6 million, Boeser is someone the Islanders should certainly consider. He easily slides into the top line, potentially allowing Barzal to slide into the 2C role.

This move is one I would love to see as long as the price is right.