Almost a year ago to the day, Islanders GM Garth Snow shook up the hockey universe by trading for “Captain Canada” Ryan Smyth. Snow showed every team in the NHL, that the Islanders are no longer the punchline of everybody’s joke. But if Islanders fans thought Snow was in a tough position last year, oh boy.

The Islanders are on the outside looking in when it comes to the playoff picture. Currently the Islanders have 67 points and are 1 out of the final spot for the playoffs. 3 weeks ago, if a fan was asked if the Islanders should be ”buyers” or “sellers” at the trade deadline, the answer almost indefinitely would have been “sellers”. But due to their recent play, that answer may have changed. Going through a 7-game losing streak and then transitioning into a 6-game winning streak, has put Snow in one mighty bind. With the trade deadline a little over a day away, rumors are swirling about possible moves the Islanders will or won’t make.

The most popular of these rumors has been the possibility of defenseman Bryan McCabe returning to Long Island. McCabe, who was an Islanders 2nd round draft pick in 1993, has been ridiculed  by the Toronto media for his recent play and his bloated contract. McCabe is set to make $7 million dollars this and next year which could be the potential stumbling block in trade negotiations. However, it is not the only snag. McCabe also has a full no-trade-clause and would have to waive it to be traded. Another potential problem could be the asking price on the part of the Maple Leafs. If the Leafs want more than 1 of the Islanders top young defensemen or prospects, the Islanders may have to balk.

Another name being tossed around recently is Calgary Flames LW Alex Tanguay. The Islanders(who are 28th in goals) are desperate for offensive fire power and may have found a partner. Tanguay is relatively young at 27 and has averaged 68 points over his career. The Flames will most likely try to pry Ruslan Fedotenko or Jeff Tambellini away and perhaps a draft pick or two. BUT like McCabe, Tanguay has a full no-trade-clause.

Trent Hunter was rumored about being moved but was recently locked up and will spend 5 more years on Long Island. Another player whom the Islanders are looking to sign long term is C Mike Comrie.Comrie is signed only through this year and if the two sides do not agree on an extension, Comrie may also be moved.