Current New York Islanders captain, Mark Streit seems to have hit an impasse in contract negotiations. The veteran defenseman, is set to become an unrestricted free agent when free-agency starts on July 5. Sources told Newsday that he will not return to the team next season, as his camp and the Isles front office cannot agree to terms for a new deal. Its is being reported that Streit is looking for at least $5.5 million per season, and the Islanders are only willing to offer $5 million per season over 3-years. Streit just finished his 5-year deal he signed for $20.5 million in 2008, and served as captain since the beginning of the 2011-12 season.
Newsday also has reported that if the Isles and Streit cannot work out a deal, MVP finalist, John Tavares will be handed the honor of captaincy. Tavares had a break out year during the shortened season, registering 27 points and adding 6 more in their 1st round series against the Pittsburgh Penguins.
With Tavares already being the face of the Islanders franchise, inheriting captaincy is inevitable. The Isles are moving to Brooklyn following the 2014-15, so it would be everyone’s best interest to have Tavares wearing the C on his jersey before the move. Losing Streit would be a big blow, however passing down the captaincy torch after a very impressive season could be something for the Isles to build on.
Justin Lerner: PureSportsNY