New York Islanders Way Too Early Free Agent Predictions

With the New York Islanders trading Brock Nelson after they offered him an extension, I thought it was time to discuss the future of other Islanders who require a contract after this season. 

The squad has multiple free agents and a lot of cap space to spend with that total being around $30 million. Here’s who I believe the blue and orange will be looking to bring back after this season. 

Forwards (RFA’s)

Simon Holmstrom

The former first-round pick has found his spot in the lineup and could be due for an increase in minutes next season. He has been a contributor on the penalty kill, power play, and 5-on-5. He will be due for a raise from his $850k cap hit. I’d expect Holmstrom’s next contract to be around $2.5-3.5 million per season and anywhere from three or four years in length. My prediction: four years $3.5 million per season.

Maxim Tsyplakov

It’s been a promising rookie season for the former KHL forward. He’s found chemistry on multiple different lines and has progressed as the season’s gone on. The playmaking ability is definitely there, and he’s one of the more physical forwards on the team but his all-around game still needs to improve. I believe he’ll continue to progress into a top-six forward for the squad. He will be brought back by the blue and orange, and I believe his contract will be four years and $3 million per season.

Marc Gatcomb

Gatcomb has been a pleasant surprise for the Islanders this season. He’s a physical forward and has brought a ton of energy to the squad. It’s been difficult for coach Patrick Roy to take him out of the lineup. Gatcomb will be back on the squad next year and at a friendly price. I believe it’ll be a two-year deal worth $775k per season. 

Liam Foudy

A forward that spent most of the season in Bridgeport. Foudy played a few games with the NHL club and didn’t see anything on the stat sheet other than a -1. Despite that I believe he will be back. Foudy can be a depth forward for the team. I believe Foudy’s contract will be one year at $775k.

Adam Beckman

The 23-year-old has played 23 NHL games in his early career, recording three assists. He is someone who could get the chance to be called-up next season with the Islanders wanting to get younger. He brings a solid two-way game and I believe will be back on a one-year deal at $775k.