Don’t Expect the NY Islanders to Trade for These Three Players

#1: Trevor Zegras

Zegras’ name has been on the rumor mill for a long time. The Anaheim Ducks forward has shown what he can do. In 2022-23 he notched 23 goals and 65 points over 81 games. Those totals make him a highly attractive player.

Imagine a player like that on the Islanders. He would provide the Isles with a number-two center, perhaps playing in between Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri. Moreover, the Isles could experiment with a number of combinations. Zegras could play on the top unit or even move down to a third-line role.

While the options are plenty, it’s unreasonable to assume that Lou Lamoriello will be working the phones, trying to get Zagras. First, Zegras is coming off a major injury last season. He missed most of the year with various injuries including a broken ankle. While the ankle may be totally healed, there’s no telling if there will be any long-term effects.

Second, there’s Zegras’ $5.75 million cap hit, per PuckPedia. While that cap hit isn’t as high as Buchnevich’s, it’s still pretty hard to fit under the cap. So, would the Ducks be willing to retain salary? If so, the Ducks may have a higher asking price. That asking price may include a first-round pick.

Given the Isles’ lack of high-end prospects, sacrificing first-round picks may not be the best way to go.

Lastly, Zegras will be an RFA in 2027. That opens up another can of worms. Will Zegras command a double-digit AAV in his next deal? Could the Isles afford it?

All of these questions make trading for Trevor Zegras a highly risky proposition. Yes, there is plenty of upside in acquiring the Ducks’ center. But the potential cons far outweigh the apparent pros.