Qualifying and More Isles Drama

The Islanders have tendered qualifying offers to Sean Backman, Justin DiBenedetto,  Mark Katic,  Mikko Koskinen,  Tomas Marcinko, Matt Martin,  Rhett Rakhshani, and Ty Wishart.

Matt Martin has made himself a piece of the Islanders rebuild from his hardwork and spirited play.  Martin led the NHL in single-season hits last season at 357.

Remember DiBenedetto, Katic and Rakhshani have all signed in Europe, so this is a contract move by the Isles to maintain their rights in North America.  Koskinen is on loan, playing for the Espoo Blues in the Finnish SM-liiga.  Backman, Marcinko and Wishart should be in Bridgeport this season for depth.

Qualifying offers were not made to Tyler McNeely, Tony Romano, Yuri Alexandrov, and Yannick Reindeau.

Per Eric Hornick, “RT @Islesinfo Kelly Chase reported: NHL Network NHL Tonight Isles offered "most of their picks" for 2nd pick to get Murray; CBJ declined.”

It was also reported that the Islanders offered “All” of their 2012 draft picks for the second overall selection.  The rumor was leaked by Blue Jackets beat reporter, Aaron Portzline.

The rumor has sparked responses from several hockey media personnel and outlets, that have ranged from mockery to acceptance that the Islanders would offer so much for Murray at #2.  I think you would have to give a lot to move down to the second pick, but seriously? From what I have seen of Snow's approach, I don't think this big of a price would be paid, even if this many of the Organization's assets are available for a big move to get a promising prospect. Why not use them with prospects already in system to tempt a deal for a star player in the NHL now?

New York Islanders official response to rumor.  "We do not comment on things of this nature. We're extremely happy with all of our selections and look forward to their continued development as a part of our organization's future."

Isles Notes:

Per Chris Botta, “Source confirms Isles asked Ducks last week about Bobby Ryan, who'd be perfect rebuild next-step. Nothing close yet.”

Prospect camp opened today and the Blue and White scrimmage is on Thursday of this week.  I will write about the camp as information becomes available.

NHL Notes:

Per Pat Leonard, “NHLPA meetings now underway in Chicago. Don Fehr to speak later ... Also tomorrow NHL will announce this year's Hall of Fame class.”