Isles: GM 101

Everyone knows the Islanders have some decisions to make at the deadline. Let’s try doing a breakdown of the New York Islanders. I know what you’re thinking — “But we don’t have time for a nervous breakdown!” :-) But this is supposed to be a serious blog.

Putting on the hat of the Isles GM, here is what I would do.

The biggest complaint I have heard from the Isles fans is that the defense is old and slow. I am sure the Islanders recognize this. As GM, I would address this and try to move Green out at the deadline. I would also ask Chara if he wants to go or stay. Most people believe that Chara will choose to stay, but you never know.

Among the forwards, I would definitely make Cal Clutterbuck available. I would put Zach Parise up for the taking. With the Isles cap, this is not an issue. I don’t give incentives to take the contracts. These players are getting traded for assets, not for financial reasons.

It is believed that most of these players will be made available, making it easy for my decision-making.

Now the next player is the goalie. I would hear offers with the understanding of getting another goalie back in return. I have to make sure that a goalie comes back in the trade. Every team in the League realizes they need a two-goalie tandem. You don’t want to overwork Ilya Sorokin. Sorokin is still a young asset. The Isles need another goalie to mentor him.

I have purposely left Josh Bailey out, simply because of his 5 million dollar cap. I am not sure there will be many teams calling on him. I wrote a blog not long ago on Bailey, and no one could agree on his value to the team. I am sure if the Isles get calls, they will listen.

Randy