With free agency underway, let’s take a look at three targets the Islanders will have this offseason.
Jeff Skinner
Position: Winger | Age: 32
Unless the Islanders make a move to free up space, Skinner is likely the highest-caliber scorer they can acquire on the free agent market.
Skinner will be available at an affordable price after coming off his contract with the Sabres and would be a top-six addition for the Islanders, who are looking to add another scoring talent.
Nick Cousins
Position: Forward | Age: 30
If the goal is to rebuild the fourth line, the first place the Islanders should look is at the Panthers’ quarter, who rotated their fourth line during the postseason.
Cousins, Steven Lorentz, Ryan Lomberg and Kevin Stenlund are all well-rounded players who could bring some needed toughness and make the Islanders more difficult for opponents to deal with.
It’s hard to imagine anyone wanting to leave after Florida holds its victory parade on Sunday, but the Islanders will need to hope for the best.
Brendan Smith
Position: Defenseman | Age: 35
Mike Reilly would likely be the first choice to play on the left side of the third pairing, but if the Islanders can’t bring him back — or if they do but need defensive reinforcements — it would make sense to acquire Smith on a one-year deal.
He has previously played on the market with the Rangers and Devils and is a popular veteran who can play on either the left or right wing.
