Islanders Eyeing Blackhawks Players: A Potential Boost for Long Island's Defense
The New York Islanders are in Las Vegas for their upcoming game against the Golden Knights, but their eyes are also on the Chicago Blackhawks. The Islanders' pro scout was spotted at the Blackhawks-Devils game on Wednesday, indicating a potential interest in acquiring some Chicago players.
Stefen Rosner, a sports journalist, noted that the Islanders are one of several teams scouting the Blackhawks tonight. This move could be strategic, as the Islanders recently faced the Devils, who are based in New Jersey, and it might be more practical to scout Chicago players in person rather than traveling to New Jersey.
The Islanders have a pressing need to strengthen their right-side defense, and the Blackhawks have two players who could fill this gap. First, Louis Crevier, a 6'8 giant drafted in the 7th round of the 2020 NHL Draft, has already played 72 games and is just 24 years old. He's a rising star with two goals and eight points in 16 games this season, making him a potential game-changer for the Islanders' defense.
Crevier's size and potential make him an attractive option, but the Blackhawks might be hesitant to trade him due to their own defensive depth issues. Chicago currently has an 11-forward, 7-defensemen setup, which is far from ideal for a team in rebuilding mode. They are also looking to add an NHL forward to their roster, and the Islanders, with their abundance of NHL forwards, could be a potential trading partner.
Another Blackhawks player on the Islanders' radar is Connor Murphy, a 32-year-old veteran right-shot blue liner. Murphy has been a loyal and steady presence for the Blackhawks during their lengthy rebuild, wearing a letter since the 2020-21 season, which highlights his leadership. However, like Crevier, Murphy is also a pending UFA, and the Blackhawks might be willing to trade him if they receive a suitable forward or pick package.
The Islanders' interest in these Blackhawks players could be a strategic move to address their defensive needs while also providing Chicago with a potential trading partner. With the NHL Trade Deadline approaching, the Islanders might be looking to make an early run to strengthen their roster and compete for a playoff spot.
