Islanders GM: John Tavares 'has earned every right' to listen to pitches from other teams
New York Islanders general manager Lou Lamoriello said he's not discouraged that star center John Tavares will listen to pitches from other NHL teams ahead of unrestricted free agency, rather than re-signing with the team before the process plays out.
"I have no disappointment. No discouragement," Lamoriello said after Day 2 of the NHL draft in Dallas. "He's earned every right to make whatever choice he has. The most important thing is that we hope in the end that he's an Islander,"
Pat Brisson, the agent for Tavares and the co-head of CAA Hockey, announced on Saturday that his client would listen to pitches from at least five teams during the lead-up to July 1, when Tavares is free to sign anywhere. The field is expected to include the San Jose Sharks, who have over $20 million in cap space after trading forward Mikkel Boedker and buying out defenseman Paul Martin; the Toronto Maple Leafs, Tavares' hometown team; the Tampa Bay Lightning, home to Tavares' close friend Steven Stamkos; the Vegas Golden Knights, who have over $30 million in cap space; and a surprise entrant, the Dallas Stars.nfl jerseys cheap china
Dallas GM Jim Nill offered no comment. Tampa GM Steve Yzerman said, "I'm not allowed to comment on any players until after midnight tonight," but added that if a big-name free agent sought to sign with the Lightning, "We would have to make room -- we would have to make room if we brought in a significant salary."
Vegas GM George McPhee said his team would add a significant free agent if it made sense: "There's no urgency for us to do anything. We like the team we have, we like the model we have. If we can make it better by doing something that makes sense, then we'll do it."official nfl jerseys cheap
Sharks GM Doug Wilson added: "The interview process obviously doesn't open up until tomorrow. And when that comes, we'll be prepared and see what opportunities and what conversations we'll be able to participate in."
The pitches are expected to take place at the CAA offices in Los Angeles. Would Lamoriello head out there to pitch the Islanders?
