NY Islanders: Potential Landing Spots for Scott Mayfield

Over the past five and a half years, Scott Mayfield has been a mainstay in the NY Islanders lineup. From joining the team in the 2015 playoffs as a defender with size to help combat Alex Ovechkin to his two runs to the Eastern Conference Finals, Mayfield has put his team first before any personal gratification.

Signing a 5-year, $7.25M contract in 2017, Mayfield has been a consummate professional, playing a demanding role while appearing in 345 of a possible 370 games.

With his contract expiring on July 1st, Mayfield is due a significant pay raise, which he undoubtedly deserves. Likely commanding north of $4M a season, there's a chance Mayfield may be priced out of the Islanders range, as the front office has just over $5 in cap space available as things currently stand. 

While there will surely be plenty of suitors prepared to inquire about a 6’5”, 30-year-old defenseman’s services, Mayfield will have the final say on his new home.

St. Louis Blues

A St. Louis native, this would be a homecoming for Mayfield, returning to the place he grew up and played AAA hockey. The Blues have $7.5M in available cap space this summer, more than enough to fit Mayfield and still shop around.

The Blues are in no man’s land as they’re between rebuilding and looking to compete for a playoff spot. It may be a bit of a long shot, but playing at home can be enticing.

Buffalo Sabres

The Sabres are a young, exciting team ready to push for their first playoff appearance in 12 seasons. With nearly $17M in available cap space, Buffalo could easily fit Mayfield, as he would add some much-needed size, along with a defense-first mindset. 

If Sabres GM Kevyn Adams falls in love with Mayfield, he should have the available capital to outbid any other potential suitors.

Toronto Maple Leafs

It’s become an annual off-season tradition to discuss the Leafs' defensive corps and how they don’t match up with their potent offense. The Leafs have some money to spend this off-season with $9M available but have eight spots open on their roster. 

A discount would need to be taken to join the Leafs, but expect new GM Brad Trevliving to take a run at Mayfield, as the team has been without a big-bodied defender for quite some time.

New York Islanders

The Isles can’t be ruled out of the Mayfield sweepstakes, as the guy who makes Long Island his home year-round would love to remain with the franchise that made him the player he is today.

A home-town discount is needed to fit Mayfield on the roster, as he’ll need to decide between the all-mighty dollar and the comfort of home.