NHL Rumors: Islanders Linked To 2 Big Names This Summer

The New York Islanders are at the center of swirling trade rumors with the team being linked to two significant talents, Nikolaj Ehlers and Martin Necas, as noted by Russell Macias of NYI Hockey Now and Stefen Rosner of The Hockey News.

Ehlers, a standout winger for the Winnipeg Jets, is known for his blazing speed and scoring prowess, traits that would provide the Islanders with much-needed dynamism and offensive depth.

On the other hand, Martin Necas from the Carolina Hurricanes could interest the Islanders due to his versatility and emerging playmaking skills, which could add a creative spark to the Islanders' attack.

Nikolaj Ehlers has his 200th career goal! 🚨

The #NHLJets' second line goes to work down low and Ehlers finishes off the rebound with the backhand.

The Jets jump out to a 1-0 lead over Dallas in the first. pic.twitter.com/mqa8vIHsMV

— Connor Hrabchak (@ConnorHrabchak1) April 12, 2024

These trade speculations come at a time when the Islanders are keen on making strategic additions to their roster to ensure a robust playoff run and compete for the Stanley Cup.

Ehlers, who has one year left on his contract before becoming an unrestricted free agent, carries an average annual value of $6 million.

This past season, the 28-year-old recorded 25 goals and 36 assists for 61 total points across 82 games played.

Ehlers and Necas are seen as the ideal fits to complement the Islanders' current lineup, offering both immediate impact and long-term benefits.

This season, the 25-year-old Necas recorded 24 goals and 29 assists for 53 total points across 77 games played, coming off a career-best season with 71 points the year before.

Martin Necas unwilling to relinquish his goal title ties the game with seconds left in regulation for his 20th goal of the season. pic.twitter.com/dgt8nJXdBo

— Collin Madewell (@Collinhomeice) January 28, 2023

Over his seven-year NHL career, spent entirely with the Hurricanes, Necas has put up 97 goals and 146 assists for 243 total points over 362 games played.

However, acquiring talents like Ehlers and Necas won't come without its challenges. The Islanders may need to navigate complex negotiations and offer substantial assets in return, balancing between capitalizing on immediate opportunities and maintaining sustainable future prospects.

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