I want to put together a brief, realistic analysis of the Islanders needs based on what we have all discussed over the 2010-2011 season.

I think most of us believe that a strong winger is needed for John Tavares and a solid top 4 defenseman will help bolstering a blueline made up of prospects and veterans.

NHL.com has released its final rankings on what it think each team will do.  For the first time in a few years I agree with much of these ideas on picks.  Heres the link for full coverage: http://www.nhl.com/ice/page.htm?id=68924

Here's the top 5 picks from each analyst:

1) Ryan Nugent-Hopkins 2) Gabriel Landeskog 3) Sean Couturier 4) Adam Larsson 5) Dougie Hamilton

1) Ryan Nugent-Hopkins 2) Gabriel Landeskog 3) Adam Larsson 4) Jonathan Huberdeau 5) Dougie Hamilton

1) Ryan Nugent-Hopkins 2) Gabriel Landeskog 3) Nathan Beaulieu 4) Dougie Hamilton 5) Adam Larsson

Landeskog would be a great fit for Tavares, but Colorado picks at 2 and he would also complement Maat Duchene very well.  I wouldn't hope for Landeskog to be there at the #5 pick - thus, our winger is gone.

Larsson is averaged to go at #4 - one spot above our pick.  There is a better chance of getting our top 4 defensemen here, but I think the Devils would pick up Larsson if he is still on the table.  Dougie Hamilton could work on this team, but is he really what everyone hypes him up to be?  Although he is ranked to be the 2nd defensemen picked, he is still a bit raw and would take some time to get into the NHL, much like Calvin deHaan.

So, I propose this idea ...do we trade our first round pick?

This years' talent doesn't possess the star player, but it could possess a good piece to a future Cup winner.  Do you think we could get a piece to the playoff puzzle in the 2011 NHL Draft?

I think Garth Snow should shop the pick but not trade it until Draft Day.  I think that if we get to the #5 pick and Larsson is still on the table then take him.  If not, the trade I would propose is the 1st round pick + Blake Comeau for Brent Seabrook.

This gives Chicago a cheap forward who is progessing each year andcould be used in their top 9 and a high draft pick.  In return the Islanders get a solid top 4 defenseman who is signed up for the next 5 years - something we won't be able to get through any UFA.

This is the year to make the trade and get the big name defensemen we need.

Please share you thoughts and ideas below in the comments area as well as vote!