My KoC 2011 Free Agency Wish List

UFA’s …

Update:  Brian Compton - NHL.com - Brooks Laich will not be on the market Friday. Signs 6-year, $27 million extension with Washington.

Brooks Laich - Washington Capitals  82 games 16 goals 32 assists 48 points +14   2,067,000 vs. last years cap

Having heard his name for most of the season as a good fit for the Isles from Brian Compton, I have seen why.  Brooks Laich has toughness, grit and is well respected by teammates.  His age range and character would make him an ideal fit for the Islanders, and will probably just get better from there.

Tyler Kennedy - Pittsburg Penguins  80 games  21 goals  24 assists  45 points  +1  725,000 vs. last years cap

I cant believe Pittsburg passed on a qualifying offer, but it could have something to do with an abundance of big names.  I would imagine talks to sign him will continue until deadline.  I would love the chance to see him play for New York.  Kennedy is most commonly known among the Pittsburg fan base for his high energy play, making big hits and going hard along the boards. scoring unlikely goals have also been a part of his skill set.  A great asset if not priced out of reach.

Joel Ward - Nashville Predators  80 games  10 goals  19 assists 29 points  -1   1.500.000 vs. last years cap

Talk about a great time for a UFA status, how about after a great season and the best post season of your career to get you noticed.  Chris Botta’s choice for a key Isles acquisition, Ward has a pro islander agent and had a famed roller hockey career on Long Island

Ville Leino - Philadelphia Flyers  81 games  19 goals  34 assists  53 points  +14  269,000 vs. last years cap

At 27 years old, Leino is due for a big raise.  He was money for the Flyers in their playoff runs with 7 and14 for 21 points in 19 playoff games. He has the character that management in looking for and the experience to share with some new teammates on Long Island, if the price is right.

Radim Vrbata - Phoenix Coyotes  79 games  19 goals  29 assists  48 points  +5  3,000,000 vs. last years cap

Vrbata has tremendous hands and hockey vision. He plays in a system well and often finds a way to initiate offensive chances. 

Unlikely RFA’s, but …

Steven Stamkos - TB Lightning  82 games  45 goals  46 assists  91 points  +3  3,725,000 vs. last years cap

How great would it be?  I know, unlikely, but Stamkos would make the Islanders an instant playoff team.

Shea Weber - Nashville Predators  82 games  16 goals  32 assists  48 points  +7  4,500,000 vs. last years cap

A tenacious leader who demands what he offers.  Weber’s grit and spirit would complement the Islanders and strengthen a toughening blue line in all the right ways.