5 Trade Destinations for Islanders' Mat Barzal

The New York Islanders have informed other teams they're open to moving Mat Barzal this summer.

The Isles don't have very much cap space to work with and need to create more financial flexibility heading into next season and beyond, and Barzal's on the books for $9.1 million AAV through the 2031 season.

Barzal, 29, appeared in 81 games last season, scoring 19 goals and adding 53 assists. He owns a 22-team no-trade list, which essentially gives the Islanders nine teams on the approved list. While that exact list has yet to become public, here's five teams to consider as potential trade destinations for Barzal's services:

Anaheim Ducks

The Ducks are looking to move Mason McTavish this summer and considering how fast their rebuild has shaken up, Pat Verbeek could be looking for veteran impact forwards this summer. The Ducks have the cap space to make a deal work, and they have McTavish to dangle in talks. Certainly two teams to keep an eye on this offseason.

Chicago Blackhawks

The Blackhawks are looking for support for Connor Bedard, and have the #4 overall pick to dangle in trade talks. Would Barzal for the #4 straight up be a move we see? You'd think the Blackhawks would want more than just Barzal if this deal transpires.

San Jose Sharks

The Sharks need to add money in a big way just to get to the salary floor, so Barzal could be a top-six target that would give them a nice support system behind Macklin Celebrini. Would Michael Misa be someone the Isles zone in on? The Sharks only have two defencemen signed to NHL contracts for next season, so perhaps Alexander Romanov could find himself involved. His no-trade clause doesn't kick in until after next season.

Vancouver Canucks

The Canucks are going to be on Barzal's approved list, but is the timing right for the team for a trade. Elias Pettersson won't interest the Islanders, but they do have Jake DeBrusk who could be a solid replacement for Anders Lee, who appears to be heading for free agency. Keep an eye on the Canucks.

Seattle Kraken

The Kraken are dangling the #7 pick and Shane Wright this offseason, and moving just Wright for Barzal could be worth it for both teams. The former number one pick hasn't hit the ground running as many hoped in Seattle, and they could add a veteran stabilizer in Barzal to give them some more punch up front.

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