The NY Islanders should resist the temptation of Lightning superstar Nikita Kucherov

Nikita Kucherov in a New York Islanders jersey? Sure, let yourself imagine that power play for a minute. Then think about what that would cost and what it could mean long-term.

Even assuming the Islanders are among the 10 teams Kucherov would accept a trade to, pursuing the 33-year-old superstar would be a mistake. There’s a difference between getting better and putting yourself in position to win a Stanley Cup. The Islanders need to remember that.

Lightning GM Julien BriseBois has publicly said the organization has no intention of trading Kucherov. That could change. But it hardly suggests Tampa Bay would be eager to accept a bargain package from his former Assistant GM Mathieu Darche and that’s where this gets uncomfortable.

The Islanders should be building around Matthew Schaefer’s future.

Trading premium picks and their best young assets for Kucherov would accelerate the expectations for this season without necessarily providing the depth needed to meet them. One spectacular winger can transform an offense. He cannot fill every hole left by acquiring him.

Then comes the contract.

Kucherov can become an unrestricted free agent after this season. Without an extension, the Islanders would risk paying an enormous price for a brief stay. With one, they would be committing substantial money to a player whose next contract covers years deeper into his 30s.

Nobody needs to pretend his production is about to disappear. Great players can remain great. But paying for that possibility while surrendering the inexpensive talent needed to support him is a dangerous combination.

Would he make the Islanders more entertaining? Absolutely. More dangerous? Obviously.

A championship favorite? That’s the question, and I don’t see enough certainty to justify the gamble.

The temptation is understandable. Islanders fans have spent years wanting a scorer of this caliber.

But wanting the player doesn’t mean accepting the price. Build a team that can contend throughout Schaefer’s prime. Don’t sacrifice that opportunity chasing someone else’s.

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