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With much of the focus for the New York Islanders' offseason surrounding contract extensions for Mathew Barzal and Ryan Pulock, little attention has been given to New York’s remaining depth free agents. One of those free agents is forward Derick Brassard.

While there were reports that the Islanders were looking to bring back Andy Greene and Matt Martin, as well as adding goaltender Cory Schneider, there’s seemingly been less discussion regarding Brassard. According to LeDroit’s Marc Brassard, the forward said he’s received offers to play in Europe but is looking to return to the NHL.

Given that information, it seems like Brassard hasn't received much attention in free agency. That should mean that it probably wouldn't take much to bring him back to New York at a low price.

As inconsistent as he was, Brassard was still a member of the top-nine for the better part of the year and added offense. Brassard scored 10 goals and 32 points in 66 games, a pace of 12 goals and 40 points per 82 games. While those aren’t outstanding numbers, that offense would need to be replaced.

Chances are that the Islanders are looking to wait to re-sign Greene until they can hopefully find a way to move Johnny Boychuk, which would leave them with a spot for Greene on the bottom pairing. If they still have cap space after re-signing Barzal and Greene, however, I think Brassard should be next in line for an extension. While Brassard was wildly inconsistent, he did at least perform relatively well when he had other quality forwards to play with.

If the Islanders can’t find an upgrade, which they likely won’t be able to, the team should really consider trying to find room to bring Brassard back.



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OTHER ISLANDERS ARTICLES FROM NOVEMBER

Weekly Recap: Islanders Edition (November 1)
A shorter deal could be the solution to re-signing Ryan Pulock
Islanders re-sign Ryan Pulock
Analyzing Ryan Pulock's new contract
With Ryan Pulock signed, the focus turns to Mathew Barzal’s contract
Weekly Recap: Islanders Edition (November 7)
What would it cost the Islanders to trade Johnny Boychuk?
Islanders unveil Reverse Retro jersey
Islanders loan Jakub Skarek
Otto Koivula producing offensively in Finland

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