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NHL Today: Islanders Latest; Deadline Drama

Published

3 months ago

February 8, 2024

Good morning, my name is Andrew Fantucchio. It’s Thursday, February 8, and here’s what’s happening around the NHL today.

Islanders Latest:

It’s that time of year again. The NHL trade deadline is fast approaching, and many are wondering what moves the New York Islanders will make. How would those moves affect the players on the current roster? Should they make any at all?

I provide answers to your questions in the latest Islanders mailbag.

After Casey Cizikas wore a full contact jersey during yesterday’s practice, all signs are pointing toward the center being activated off long-term injured reserve tonight when the Islanders face the Tampa Bay Lightning.

John Tavares is used to Islanders fans coming after him, but now he has to fend off the Canadian government. In a report by Greg McGregor of the National Post, Tavares is taking on the Canadian Tax Agency in a multi-million dollar dispute over the signing bonus he received from the Toronto Maple Leafs when he left the Islanders back in 2018.

Bruins Rookie Poitras Out For Rest Of Season:

Boston Bruins center Matthew Poitras underwent successful shoulder surgery on Wednesday and will miss the remainder of the season.

In 33 games during his first year in the league, the rookie Poitras accounted for 15 points and five goals.

The Bruins have needed help at center all year and are more so now than ever as they continue to scour the NHL trade market for reinforcements.

Flames Extend Up-And-Coming Forward:

A fire sale is happening in Calgary as the Flames appear to be one of the league’s biggest sellers at this year’s deadline. However, they’re still keeping a few players on board for the rebuild.

The Flames signed rookie winger Martin Pospisil to a two-year contract extension worth $1 million annually.

How that affects the eventual decision on Noah Hanifin’s contract remains to be seen. But one way or another, the drama looks to be reaching its climax.

More From National Hockey Now:

Philadelphia: Ilya Bryzgalov’s tenure with the Philadelphia Flyers didn’t go as planned, but his son could be the answer to the team’s sudden issues in net.

Pittsburgh: Winnipeg Jets defenseman Brendan Dillon has been hit with a three-game suspension for a hit on Noel Accari of the Pittsburgh Penguins.

Detroit: The Detroit Red Wings are part of the tight race for a spot in the Eastern Conference playoffs. What will push them over the edge?

Montreal: There was worried the Montreal Canadiens wasted the first overall pick in 2022 on Juraj Slafkovsky, but his recent development says otherwise.