Barzel's RFA status gives him more value

Massive L for NYI here unless Barzal makes it clear he won't sign an extension

i honestly think both teams would pass - i'm just going off CF's positions for this but who plays RW1 with Marchand and Barzal if Pasta's gone? And from the Islanders side, unless you think Aatu Raty is going to turn into a rock-solid 1C within the next year or two, why are you trading a bonafide 1C with RFA control for 1 year of a superstar winger?

It's a fun theoretical but I think doing this one-for-one would basically be hanging the sword of Damocles over your head as GM. If Pasta decides to walk after one year, the pitchforks would come out in droves for Lou. And if Barzal goes to Boston and doesn't develop any chemistry with Marchand while Pasta scores 45, I'm pretty sure they'd restart the Big Dig just to make a hole deep enough to bury Don Sweeney forever.

Interesting idea but I think Islanders pass unless there is an extension in place with Pasta. That also creates a big hole a C that I do not see a way to fill.

Pastrnak over the last 3 years has played 6 less games, but has 56 more points than Barzal. Pasta also has nearly as many goals as Barzal has assist over those 3 years.