Your Sunday Islander Rumors

It's certainly clear that the Islanders have been struggling lately, losing 19 games out of 20 played. It appears that they might be interested in upgrading their team, and trying to shoot for the playoffs despite the current streak.

Here are some of the rumors I've been hearing over the past few days:

James Wisniewski: Todd Cordell tells me that several teams show interest in the Islanders defenseman, two of those teams being the San Jose Sharks and the Columbus Blue Jackets. Also, Nick Perri reports that the Rangers are looking for a defenseman.

My take: I don't think the Isles will move James unless they get a better player in return. With Mark Streit currently sidelined, they need the d-man in their lineup. The Rangers are looking for a defenseman, though, and if they offer enough to the Isles, Garth Snow might accept.

Bruch Garrioch of the Ottawa Sun reports that the Islanders may be looking for a winger to help out former first overall pick John Tavares, who only has netted eight goals so far this season. It appears that Simon Gagne could be their guy.

My take: Tavares definitely needs someone on the wing so he can develop properly. Moulson's there to help him, but PA Parenteau doesn't seem to set him up too often. If the Isles can get Gagne, I'd say go for it. This trade would make sense in the long run (as Snow wants) because not only would it develop John, but it would add top six talent to the Isles lineup.

The Edmonton Journal reports that the Tampa Bay Lightning show interest in the Isles backup goaltender Dwayne Roloson.

My take: If the Islanders would be willing to trade Roloson and then call up one of the goaltenders from the Sound Tigers, in return they may be able to get Gagne. But first, Simon has to waive his no trade clause. If Garth Snow recives a good deal for Dwayne, there's no doubt Roloson will be traded, as he's entering his final year of the two year contract he was given.