Islanders Could Revisit Michael Bunting as Free Agency Slows Down
With the NHL Draft and the opening wave of free agency in the rearview mirror, the New York Islanders may now shift their attention to affordable veterans looking for a fresh opportunity.
Armed with just over $4.2 million in available salary cap space, general manager Mathieu Darche will likely need to be selective as he continues to shape the roster. Rather than pursuing marquee free agents, the Islanders could target experienced players seeking short-term, prove-it contracts.
Among the names still available, Michael Bunting and Patrik Laine stand out as intriguing possibilities.
Michael Bunting Remains a Logical Fit
Bunting could be one of the Islanders’ more realistic options. The 30-year-old winger has appeared in nearly 500 NHL games and has developed a reputation as a physical, high-energy forward capable of contributing offensively.
Since leaving the Toronto Maple Leafs in free agency, Bunting has spent time with multiple organizations, including the Carolina Hurricanes, Nashville Predators, and Dallas Stars. Although he hasn’t reached the 20-goal mark since his Toronto days, he has consistently produced between 14 and 19 goals while bringing an edge to his game.
After completing a three-year contract worth $4.5 million annually, Bunting may now be in line for a shorter, more affordable deal. Earlier this offseason, reports linked him to the Islanders before the club acquired Ondrej Palat, and that interest may not have disappeared.
If Bunting prioritizes playing time over a lucrative contract, Long Island could become an attractive destination later in the summer.
Patrik Laine Offers Offensive Upside
Laine is another player who could interest New York. Still only 28 years old, the former No. 2 overall pick no longer carries his previous $8.7 million cap hit and remains one of the league’s more dangerous power-play shooters.
His production has declined from his peak years in Winnipeg, but Laine scored 20 goals in 2024-25 despite appearing in just 54 games with the Montreal Canadiens. Fifteen of those goals came on the power play, highlighting a skill set that could address one of the Islanders’ biggest weaknesses.
While concerns about health and consistency remain, Laine’s scoring ability could make him an appealing gamble on a one-year prove-it contract.
Affordable Veterans Could Strengthen Competition
With much of last season’s roster returning under new head coach Peter DeBoer, the Islanders may focus on adding veterans who can create competition during training camp without limiting future financial flexibility.
Whether it’s Bunting’s physical style or Laine’s offensive upside, either player could provide valuable depth as New York looks to improve its roster heading into the 2026-27 season.
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