Could Tony DeAngelo be an ideal fit on the NY Islanders blue line?

There are very few things that NY Islanders and NY Rangers fans can agree on, but the distaste for Tony DeAngelo may be one of them. The New Jersey native and puck-moving defenseman for the Philadelphia Flyers is in the final year of his contract, with newly appointed GM Daniel Briere potentially looking to move DeAneglo before the draft.

After a 2019-20 season with the Rangers, where he amassed 53 points (15 goals, 38 assists) in 68 games, DeAngelo was waived midway through the following season after a reported altercation with goaltender Igor Shesterkin. Clearing waivers, DeAngelo remained without a team for the remainder of the season, being signed by the Carolina Hurricanes for the 2021-22 season. Signing a one-year contract with the Hurricanes, DeAngelo registered 51 points (10 goals, 41 assists) as the 'Canes' offensive leader from the blue line. After a terrific offensive season, DeAneglo signed a two-year deal with the Flyers with a cap hit of $5M.

While playing with the Rangers, DeAngelo became a lightning rod, drawing attention on social media throughout his tenure with the organization. An outspoken supporter of Donald Trump, DeAngelo reportedly used "burner accounts" on social media to defend the former President of the United States, and himself, much to the chagrin of the Twittersphere.

Since signing with Carolina two seasons ago, DeAngelo has managed to stay out of the news for anything but his play. There's no denying DeAngelo's skill set on the ice - and much to the displeasure of the Isles faithful, could DeAngelo be just what this team is looking for?

Though Lou Lamoriello has made it evident he would like to bring back Scott Mayfield, there's the possibility the lifelong Islander finds a new home along with a boatload of cash. If this were the case, the Islanders would be in need of a right-shot defenseman, not to mention someone who can quarterback the power play from the blue line. DeAngelo's 19 points on the power play were tied with Mat Barzal and Noah Dobson, who led the team on the man advantage.

Briere is reportedly willing to retain fifty percent of DeAngelo's contract in order to maximize his return. With a depleted prospect pool, the Islanders don't have much to give up and may not want to part with the few players they believe can have an impact on the organization.

Though it would be a hard pill to swallow, DeAngelo would improve this team from day one. It may be a long shot, but you have to believe Lamoriello is doing his due diligence on a 50+ point defenseman who may be available.