Lou Lamoriello, the general manager of the New York Islanders, has made it clear that the team is not looking to subtract any key players ahead of the trade deadline. With defenseman Scott Mayfield being placed on long-term injured reserve, Lamoriello now has $3.5 million in cap space to potentially add a forward to the roster. The Islanders, who are six points out of a playoff spot in the East, are looking to make improvements despite their recent winning streak.
Options for the Islanders include players like Alexander Barabanov and Luke Kunin from the San Jose Sharks, as well as former Islander Anthony Beauvillier from the Chicago Blackhawks. The team may be willing to give up a first-round pick or other assets in order to acquire a scoring forward like Frank Vatrano from the Anaheim Ducks. Lamoriello has expressed a preference for being a buyer and may act on this stance to strengthen the team’s chances of making the playoffs.
Scott Mayfield’s injury has created an opportunity for the Islanders to explore potential trades and bolster their lineup for the remainder of the season. While the team still faces an uphill battle to secure a postseason berth, Lamoriello’s willingness to add rather than subtract key players demonstrates the team’s determination to improve and compete at a higher level.
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