Thomas Vanek
ESNY’s projected cost: 2nd round draft pick, conditional 3rd or 4th round pick
Yes, it’s understood the bad blood that could surround a reunion with the controversial Thomas Vanek. There was some controversy that surrounded the forward after he used his Islanders paychecks to pay off gambling debt.Not only that, but he turned down a $50 million extension from Snow before he parted ways with Long Island, citing he wanted to return home to Minnesota.
After signing a three-year deal with the Wild, only to be bought out in his third year, Vanek is on a one-year contract with Detroit.
Vanek has been finding renewed life in Detroit, scoring 15 goals and 38 points in 47 games for the Red Wings.
While the Islanders shouldn’t be in the market for an expensive rental, it could be worth the second rounder it will likely cost to obtain Vanek for a few months to see if there’s still any magic that’s lingering between him and Tavares.
With the Red Wings looking at missing the playoffs for the first time in 25 years, GM Ken Holland is looking at definitely becoming a seller.
As long as he comes at the right price, a reunion could prove beneficial to Vanek and the Islanders. At 33-years-old, Vanek is likely looking for a place to settle down and see out the rest of his career at. He will likely demand a four to five-year deal if the Islanders decide there’s still something there.
