The New York Islanders will likely be quiet at today’s NHL Trade Deadline. But one player that could be traded is defenseman Scott Mayfield. However, if the Islanders do not get an offer of at least two first-round picks for Mayfield, he should not be traded Monday afternoon.

Right now, Mayfield has one year left on his contract — after this season — valued at $1.5 million. Easily one of the best contracts in hockey, the Islanders would get a pretty good return for their physical defenseman. He would make a great addition to any postseason contender, as he is great defensively and fantastic on the penalty-kill. But he has a style of play that is perfect for the Islanders, which is the precise reason why he should not be dealt.

The Islanders should not go into a total rebuild. They still have a good core when everyone plays up to their ability. The Islanders need to keep a certain group of players together heading into the offseason to at least try to compete next season. By trading Mayfield — who has two goals and 14 assists in 60 games this season — Islanders’ President and General Manager Lou Lamoriello would put the team at risk of falling short again next year.

The Islanders have improved recently and Mayfield has been key to the recent success. While the Islanders will likely not contend for the Stanley Cup this season, it doesn’t mean they should be sellers at the Trade Deadline. Therefore, with Mayfield being a key player on the team, it would be not in the Islanders’ best interest to trade him Monday afternoon.

Jack Kobil

Hi, my name is Jack Kobil. I am currently attending Woodrow Wilson High School in Washington DC. I am a huge Islanders fan and I love to share my passion for this team.