You can probably bet your bottom dollar the New York Islanders will try to acquire another defenseman before the start of the NHL regular season. Failing to snag Christian Ehrhoff (Buffalo News), the Islanders will still want to add some offensive punch to their blue line. Plus, the organization needs to spend at least another $2.4 million (or so) just to reach the salary floor.
The trade route could work. A club over or near the salary cap with an healthy slew of NHL-capable defensemen -- Buffalo Sabres, Philadelphia Flyers, Washington Capitals -- might be willing to talk.
As for the free agent market, Chris Campoli, Bryan McCabe and Anton Stralman are still available. McCabe and his family actually live in Long Island -- his wife is from the area. The 36-year-old started his career with the Isles in 1995-96 but was traded to the Vancouver Canucks in 1998. A return "home" could be in the cards if McCabe can't secure a deal with a contender.
And although many are quick to pooh-pooh the possibility of Campoli returning to the Isles, we don't think the prospect is all that outrageous. Plus, Campoli may be able to get more money, signing with GM Garth Snow's squad than with another club.
