Horvat brings a new life to the Islanders as no one else has in years. Suddenly, Matt Barzal has a new classmate who can add some serious punch to the offensive numbers. Barzal needs some new blood, a player who can work with that is as intelligent as him. Horvat brings 31 goals to an embarrassingly anemic offense, including 11 powerplay goals.
Horvat with Barzal gives the Islanders a potential dynamite duo. This Batman and Robin combo will bring a lot of offensive power to the team. This trade also sets them up for another potential move in the future.
Bo Horvat's cap hit is $5.5 million. He will demand a hefty raise. Bo reportingly wants $9 million; he might settle for $8.5. To make this happen, the New York Islanders will have to do some housecleaning and free up some cap room; they could do this by letting players like Varly, Parise, and Mayfield walk away or buy out the contracts of Bailey, Martin, or Clutter. With the right changes, the Isles can have the cap flexibility to fit him in next season. You can bet the Islanders will do everything in their power to do so. Lou will only make this trade if he's confident he can sign Horvat to a new contract.
As for this season, it is a no-brainer. It's clear that the Islanders are in a solid position to make the playoffs this season. Adding Horvat makes them even more of a contender. The only question is: Can the Islanders beat the Bolts, Canes, or Bruins to make it to the Stanley Cup final? While some may see it as a risk, many believe that if the Islanders don't make a move now, they'll miss their chance.
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