Free Agency: Brassard, Greene, Martin Could Still Return to Isles

They hit the open market, but Derick Brassard, Andy Greene and Matt Martin could still end up back in orange and blue.

The New York Islanders have kept the lines of communication open with the three free agents, according to David Pagnotta of The Fourth Period. All three were allowed to walk when free agency opened on Friday at noon.

The Islanders have kept lines of communication open with Brassard, Greene & Martin. Hearing they've also kicked tires on UFAs Dadonov & Namestnikov, among others. Problem for NYI is they've been unable to unload salary, as they also have RFAs Barzal, Pulock & Toews to sign.

— David Pagnotta (@TheFourthPeriod) October 9, 2020

Earlier reports indicated that the Islanders had had conversations with Brassard about a contract extension. Lou Lamoriello told reporters during an end of the year conference call that he would love for Greene to return as well.

The Islanders have remained silent since the start of free agency. They only have $8.9 million in cap space at the moment and need to re-sign restricted free agents Mat Barzal, Ryan Pulock and Devon Toews.

It would seem that any move outside of re-signing their restricted free agents is at a standstill while they try to maneuver to free up more cap space. A report on Friday indicated the Islanders were open to moving goaltender Semyon Varlamov to free up cap space.

Johnny Boychuk, Andrew Ladd and Nick Leddy have also been highlighted as possible pieces moved to free up money.

If the Islanders attempt to move Varlamov and bring back Thomas Greiss on a cheaper deal, they may have some competition. The Edmonton Oilers are reported to have interest in the now-former Islanders goaltender.

Oilers have checked in on the likes of Thomas Greiss and Corey Crawford but nothing cooking there at the moment. I think Edmonton is going to be patient now after losing out on Markstrom. Might be a day or two before the Oilers address the goalie position

— Pierre LeBrun (@PierreVLeBrun) October 9, 2020