Long Island, NY -- The New York Islanders today held a press conference to announce not one, but three big trades. The conference was originally scheduled for Sunday, but was moved to Monday due to further news. The first deal saw captain and unquestionable team leader Michael Peca, and his $4.25 million dollar per year contract, be traded to the Buffalo Sabres with a 3rd round pick in exchange for two late first round picks. The second deal saw another high priced veteran, Mattias Norstrom traded to the Detroit Red Wings with Pascal Dupuis for Igor Grigorenko, Valterri Filpulla, Mathieu Dandenault, and Kirk Maltby. Finally, just before the conference, the Islanders dealt Kirk Maltby to Buffalo for an undisclosed package.
These deals, in all, will lower the payroll of the Islanders to around $20 million dollars. The team, of course, is now committed to rebuilding, and understand that making the playoffs is no longer even considered a long shot. Grigorenko, although coming off a near-death accident, is considered one of the best prospects in the world, while Filpulla could someday become a strong #2 centre for the Islanders. With more picks and prospects, the Isles are quickly re-tooling for 3-5 years down the road.
All this leaves the team with some glaring holes going into next season. Mathieu Garon, the only bright spot this year looks to be the #1 goalie, although he could be moved for some scoring help. The defense is anchored by Dandenault, Lukowich and Salvador, although a couple dmen will be needed in front of them. Up front, the most work will need to be done. Martin Straka is still on the block, which if moved, will leave the team needing two centres and two right wingers for next season. There is a lot of work to be done, and a lot of time before the deadline. It should be very exciting going towards the trade deadline....