Report: New York Islanders Captain Named Prime Trade Candidate

Keep an eye on the New York Islanders this season.

The Isles are in a tough spot, as they are likely a middle-of-the-pack team, and if the Stanley Cup Playoff picture gets too far away from them, expect to see some major changes from management before the trade deadline. And, that could even include moving their captain.

Anders Lee was mentioned by The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun as someone who could potentially be shipped off Long Island before the deadline. 

Pierre LeBrun: Re Anders Lee: "If the Islanders aren’t in a playoff spot...perhaps Lee would be open to a trade"; "All options are on the table. And neither side seems particularly stressed by it" - The Athletic (9/25)

Lee, 35, is entering the final season of his current contract, where he's set to earn $7 million against the cap, and owns a 15-team no-trade list. Teams like the Vancouver Canucks, Montreal Canadiens, Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Avalanche, and Utah Mammoth stick out as very early teams to watch, as if each of them are in the race, they could use some help among their top six.

Lee scored 29 goals and 54 points in 82 games last season, averaging 17:03 of ice-time per game, including 2:27 of ice-time shorthanded. The veteran winger also landed 120 hits, which was actually down from the 176 he landed the season before. 

Keep an eye on the Islanders, Lee could be moved, J.G Pageau could also be moved, and if things go completely off the rails, don't be surprised if one of Bo Horvat or Mat Barzal is also dealt before the deadline.

Photo credit:  James Guillory-Imagn Images