NHL Rumors: Henrik Lundqvist wants to play; and what are the Islanders doing?

Originally posted on The Daily Goal Horn | Last updated 7/31/21

Henrik Lundqvist tried to make a comeback this past April after having open heart surgery. “Right after getting back on the ice after surgery, I made it my “stretch goal” to join the Capitals for the end of the season,” he wrote on Social Media. “Training has been going really well and I’ve been feeling good – but my heart isn’t quite ready.”

His goal remains the same. He wants to play.

NHL Rumors: Henrik Lundqvist wants to play

The 39 year-old future first ballot hall of famer signed a one-year deal with Capitals after being bought out by the Rangers. It was determined during camp after a series of medical tests that he had to have an Aortic Valve replacement.

Bob McKenzie reported that the legendary goalie wants to come back for the upcoming season. Heading into free agency last week, Lundqvist was not available to be signed as he’s yet to receive medical clearance.

Where will he land?

Rangers goalie Alexandar Georgiev is rumored to be on the trade block. If they trade him, there’s a growing belief the Rangers could bring back The King for one more season and give him the proper send off he deserves.

All he needs is the clearance.

Henrik Lundqvist is, of course, UFA and most certainly wants to return to active NHL duty for 21-22 but, in the short term anyway, isn’t in a position to sign a contract because he’s still awaiting some medical clearances.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) July 27, 2021

What are the Islanders doing?

The New York Islanders made it to the third round of the playoffs for two consecutive seasons. They seem to be on the cusp of winning it all, but just what are they doing? Free Agency has come and gone and they still have a number of players unsigned, or do they?

General manager Lou Lamoriello must take joy in telling no one what’s going on. He also seems to be able to keep anything from leaking. Arthur Staple who covers the team for The Athletic suggests that Zach Parise and Kyle Palmieri are signed. He thinks Casey Cizikas and Travis Zajac are too.

Yet there is still no official word on any of them.

Why is it so important for Lou to keep this under wraps? Does he feel it would hurt him in negotiations with other players? Or in any trade with another team if they know the exact cap situation? Your guess is as good as mine.

The Islanders are connected to disgruntled forward Vladimir Tarasenko. So maybe there is something to that.

This article first appeared on The Daily Goal Horn and was syndicated with permission.

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