Teams calling Islanders about Barzal — The Fourth Period
The New York Islanders have generated interest in centre Mathew Barzal, but that doesn’t mean the team has much interest in moving him.
Teams have been calling the Islanders, going back to last off-season, and inquiring about his potential availability, but it would take a significant package to convince the Islanders to move him.
Bruce Garrioch of Ottawa Sun recently reported the Utah Mammoth “kicked tires” on Barzal last off-season, while Michael Russo of The Athletic noted the Minnesota Wild called about Barzal last off-season, as well.
Barzal, 29, owns a 22-team no-trade list as part of his contract. He is going into the fourth year of his eight-year, $73.2 million deal.
The Islanders have just over $10.68 million in salary cap space and are looking to upgrade their roster for next season – adding a top-six winger may be a priority this summer. Isles GM Mathieu Darche continues to go back-and-forth with captain Anders Lee on a new contract, though there remains a financial gap between the two sides.
In 81 games with the Islanders this season, Barzal registered 19 goals and 53 assists for 72 points, along with 61 penalty minutes.
