Nick Wosika-Imagn Images
The New York Islanders’ efforts to climb back into the Eastern Conference playoff race raise questions about GM Lou Lamoriello’s plans for the trade deadline, specifically what it means for Brock Nelson.
A three-time 30-plus-goal scorer, Nelson is eligible to become a UFA on July 1. On Saturday, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman reported that a lot of teams are waiting to find out whether Lamoriello re-signs or trades the 33-year-old center by the March 7 trade deadline.
Friedman believes the Islanders will attempt to re-sign Nelson. Meanwhile, The Hockey News’ Stefen Rosner reported the Minnesota native denied a recent rumor claiming he intended to sign with the Wild this summer. Rosner also indicated the Isles were taking steps to avoid losing Nelson for nothing to free agency as they did with John Tavares seven years ago.
Nelson told Rosner being a lifelong Islander would weigh in on his decision, adding that he and his family are comfortable on Long Island. Nevertheless, he also said that he didn’t know how the business side of this could play out. He had kind words for Lamoriello, crediting the Isles GM for all he’s done for him.
Rosner observed Nelson remains at the top of everyone’s trade board. NYI Hockey Now’s Russ Macias cited Friedman, The Athletic’s Arthur Staple, and TSN’s Chris Johnston reporting the Isles center was currently getting lots of attention around the NHL. Macias speculated those clubs include the Wild, Winnipeg Jets, Colorado Avalanche, Toronto Maple Leafs and Tampa Bay Lightning.
Related: NHL Trade Deadline: Middle-Six Centers Are All The Rage
Turning to the Philadelphia Flyers, they made a notable move on Jan. 31, trading forwards Morgan Frost and Joel Farabee to the Calgary Flames. However, it might not be the only move they have in store before the trade deadline.
Over the weekend, Daily Faceoff’s Anthony Di Marco reported talks were “heating up” regarding Scott Laughton. The versatile two-way forward is signed through 2025-26 with an affordable annual cap hit of $3 million. He also lacks no-trade protection.
Di Marco claimed several teams were in the mix for Laughton, including the Maple Leafs and Jets. Both clubs could use additional depth at center. Given his play, experience and leadership, it was believed the Flyers were reluctant to part with him, setting a high asking price that included a first-round draft pick.
The Jets could have the edge if they are in the bidding for Laughton. They have over $12.5 million in projected deadline cap space, possess all their first-round picks for the next three seasons and also have a good prospect pipeline to draw on for trade bait.
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