Rumor: Reported offer from the Islanders for Canucks forward J.T. Miller

Vancouver Canucks forward J.T. Miller has found himself the subject of many headlines this offseason and it'll continue that way into the season until he either signs a new contract with the team or he's traded elsewhere.

The 29 year old had a ridiculous campaign with the Canucks last season and is slated to hit the open market as an unrestricted free agent next summer. He put up 32 goals and 99 points in 80 games with the Canucks last season and if he comes anywhere close to that this upcoming season he'll be the biggest fish in the free agent pond. But, as the Canucks near the start of the regular season there's some uncertainty surrounding his future in Vancouver. His agent has stated that he will not negotiate mid-season and Canucks President Jim Rutherford has gone on record saying that he'll do whatever makes the most sense for the team's "long term health." To me, signing a 29 year old to a long-term deal when you're still a few years away from realistically competing goes against Rutherford's MO. Therefore: Rumors galore.

One team rumored to be in the mix for Miller on the trade front are the New York Islanders. In fact, NYI Hockey Now reporter Stefen Rosner reports that Miller could cost the Islanders deeply and proposes a deal including a 1st round pick, defenseman Scott Mayfield, 2nd round selection Samuel Bolduc and 1st round selection Simon Holmstrom. In this proposed deal the Canucks would also send veteran defenseman Luke Schenn to the Islanders.

To be honest, it's not the worst return for Miller but there's no sure-fire asset coming back to Vancouver. There are question marks around Bolduc, Holmstrom and the 1st round pick... while the Islanders know exactly what they're getting in Miller. Then again, if this is the legitimate offer that comes Vancouver's way, well... maybe they'll have to simply roll the dice and take it. Still, I suspect that teams will get more desperate and will be willing to part with higher calibre picks and prospects as we get closer and closer to the NHL trade deadline. Stay tuned.