Will there be a Tavares Sweeps?
The Islanders have yet to find a truly skilled player to play with John Tavares...For the longest time that was an issue but it didn't really matter. John Tavares wants to be an Islander for life. That much is very clear and he has made it very clear. But talking to people around the situation things could be changing on that front soon unless the Isles can land a player who can come in and help Tavares out.
It is not just about a partner for Tavares of course...It is largely about proving a commitment to play. When you look at the Stamkos situation last year, it took until almost the last minute to get Stamkos signed and all the same issues existed that currently do in NY...except you can make a solid argument that Tampa did more to show they wanted to win...A lot more.
Hockey players are competitors. They don't want to spend their careers on teams that aren't considered contenders...
Getting one player can change that a little...I was in Philly when Eric Lindros arrived and he changed everything...but it wasn't until they traded for John LeClair that Lindros and the Flyers were a factor.
Tavares needs his LeClair...and fast...
The Isles made a huge pitch for Duchene and now are trying for Galchenyuk...Either could become that player that makes Tavares ready to sign and the Isles know it. The problem is so do the Avalanche and Canadiens and that is why they are playing such hardball here.
Getting neither is not an option.
I updated some players on the Rumor Chart...
On Drew Stafford...
The Bruins are very much in on Stafford as is being reported...however I am hearing the Senators may be much closer to actually signing him...
On Jagr...
Still hearing Calgary...
More later today on Evander Kane...
The Buzzcast will be tonight at 5pm ET...We will be doing a look at all the remaining players in an overview...should be fun...