Nick Leddy #2 of the New York Islanders (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
The New York Islanders have traded Nick Leddy to the Detroit Red Wings. They will receive forward Richard Panik and a 2021 2nd round pick. Detroit will retain half of Panik’s salary.
First and foremost, this is a hugely necessary move in terms of salary cap. According to CapFriendly, Leddy makes $5.5 million against the cap, while Panik makes $2.75 million. Because of retention, the Islanders just gained $4.125 million in cap space.
That cap space is incredibly important for the Isles.