The Islanders Should Sign Bobby Ryan This Offseason
The New York Islanders need to address their scoring issues this offseason and have very little cap space to do so. One option for the Islanders is ex-Ottawa Senators forward Bobby Ryan.
Who Is Bobby Ryan?
The Senators bought out the final two seasons of Ryan’s contract two weeks ago and he is now an unrestricted free agent. The 33-year-old winger tallied five goals and three assists in 24 games last season.
Ryan won the 2020 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, which is awarded to the player showing the most dedication and perseverance to hockey. He missed most of the season battling an alcohol addiction and his first home game back in Ottawa was one to remember. Ryan notched an emotional hat trick and with the crowd chanting his name, he shed a tear on the bench.
It was one of the most memorable moments of the 2019-20 NHL season and it showed Ryan still has the talent to succeed at the National Hockey League (NHL) level.
Prior to last year, Ryan was dominant in the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs. He notched six goals and nine assists, helping his team come within one game of the Stanley Cup Final.
In 833 career games, Ryan has recorded 254 goals and 301 assists for 555 total points.
Why Should the Islanders Sign Bobby Ryan?
While Ryan’s best days are behind him, he can help the New York Islanders in many areas.
The Islanders struggled on the power-play last season, scoring on only 17.3% of their man-advantages, which was 24th in the NHL. Ryan is a power-play specialist, as his elite shot and special vision make him an offensive threat. His 62 career power-play goals and 139 career power-play points would immediately catapult him to the top of the Islanders roster.
Also, Ryan played the last seven seasons in Ottawa with the Senators. Why is this important? If signed by the Islanders, he would most likely be playing on the third-line with his old teammate Jean-Gabriel Pageau. The two have developed chemistry over the years and would give the Islanders a dynamic duo in the middle-six.
Most importantly, the Cherry Hill, New Jersey native will not command a lot of money. Lou Lamoriello has limited funds to address the Islanders holes this offseason and Ryan would be the perfect price on a one-year deal.
Projected New Deal: one-year, $2 million contract
If you want to see five more Islanders free agent targets, click here!
