New York Islanders Actively Pursuing Alex DeBrincat in Trade Talks

According to reports from Stefan Rosner and Newsday’s Andrew Gross, the New York Islanders are actively pursuing a trade for 25-year-old forward Alex DeBrincat. There is a possibility that Jean-Gabriel Pageau could be included in the deal, potentially heading back to the Ottawa Senators. Islanders General Manager Lou Lamoriello, who was quite busy on day one of free agency has hinted at the possibility of a hockey trade as the team wraps up its offseason signings.

Sounds like there's something there with DeBrincat and #Isles, not just smoke.

— Stefen Rosner (@stefen_rosner) July 1, 2023

DeBrincat, who recorded 27 goals and 39 assists in his first season with Ottawa, is a restricted free agent in need of a contract extension. His previous three-year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks had an annual cap hit of $6.4 million. At this stage, the Senators are trying to move his contract with a limited number of teams able to take on the salary commitment that comes with adding him to the roster. The Islanders could be among them.

As the Senators look to move forward and manage their salary cap situation, General Manager Pierre Dorion has acknowledged the varying degrees of interest from other teams and their differing willingness to meet Ottawa’s trade demands.

Potentially looking to replace DeBrincat if Dorion can pull off a trade, Elliotte Friedman reports that the Senators have also had discussions with Vladimir Tarasenko. Whether they can add Tarasenko could be influenced by how things unfold with DeBrincat. Bruce Garrioch adds that DeBrincat’s agent has been granted permission to negotiate with certain teams, but they have been unable to reach an agreement due to the player’s desire for a longer contract term.

In addition to the Islanders, the Anaheim Ducks are said to be among the teams showing significant interest in acquiring Alex DeBrincat.

As the trade talks continue to develop, it remains to be seen which team will ultimately land the talented forward. The coming days could prove crucial in determining DeBrincat’s future destination and the impact it will have on the respective teams involved.

Next: Penguins and Hurricanes Pushing Hard for Erik Karlsson Trade