Insider hints at timeline for Islanders next big move

The New York Islanders, it seems, are only just warming up. The club has stunned the NHL by pulling off two trades with division rivals this week. The most noticeable one, a rare trade with the New York Rangers, landed Carson Soucy.

The Isles pulled off another with the New Jersey Devils, landing Ondrej Palat. But if one notable insider is right, the Islanders could pull another rabbit out of their hats before too long.

During an appearance on TSN’s Insider Trading, Pierre LeBrun hinted at what the Islanders are looking for at this year’s trade deadline, and, most importantly, when they would like to make that happen.

LeBrun pointed out that the Islanders want to improve their scoring by adding another forward. The goal is to make that happen before the roster freeze on February 4:

“They’d (Islanders) like to add a piece up front, improve their offence a little, and if they really can, add that piece before next Wednesday’s deadline, if possible, as opposed to waiting until March 6.”

As for who that piece might be, that remains to be seen. There haven’t been any clear rumors suggesting who the Islanders could be targeting at this point. That likely depends on who’s selling and the price tag attached.

The timeline is to get something done before the Olympic break. However, pulling that off may be somewhat unreasonable. Of course, things can change with one phone call.

Adding Soucy wasn’t just about Islanders replacing Romanov

Another interesting point that LeBrun made was that the Islanders didn’t trade for Soucy just to replace Alexander Romanov. Unfortunately, the Isles have been without their best defenseman for practically the entire season.

While Soucy won’t effectively replace Romanov, the objective in adding Soucy wasn’t necessarily about adding another healthy body on the blue line. The deal was about rewarding the team for their strong play this season.

Bringing Soucy in is a clear mental sign that the organization believes enough in the team to make trade deadline additions. More than anything, it’s the organization giving the players a vote of confidence. It’s about showing that management believes in this group.

Moreover, it’s also about the organization rewarding fans for their unwavering support following a terribly disappointing season last year. It seems the Islanders are gearing up to become this postseason’s most dangerous club.