Islanders News: Expansion Draft theory; Mayfield memories

It’s Rivalry Week(s) over the next couple weeks across SB Nation, so we’ll be rolling with some posts around that theme, when #pandemicwork allows. Feel free to leave your topical requests in comments — or post your own FanPosts — as we navigate the uncertainty of a Most Unusual Year.

Islanders News

• The Seattle Expansion Draft is now theoretically less than a year away. This crazy non-season and other variables are changing things, but who might the Islanders expose? They can likely hope for a big contract or unproven young player to be claimed. [Athletic]
• “It kind of sucks sitting there for three hours Friday night, but you know the next morning you’re going to go there for five minutes and hear your name.” Scott Mayfield recalls getting selected early in the second round of his draft year. [Isles]
• It’s Been Too Long: In a weird year all around, the CT Post’s Michael Fornabaio checks in with his annual organizational free agency/contract status rundown, along with other assorted trivia and recent news such as Parker Milner’s retirement. [Soundin’ Off]

Elsewhere

• So the NHL announced the latest tally of positive test results: 15 from those in Phase 2, plus 11 from those who are “outside the protocol.” [TSN | NHL]
• The finishing touches are still in the air, but the NHLPA is expected to vote soon on how to proceed. [Sportsnet]
• And maybe Vegas and Toronto are the favorites to be playoff hub cities? It shifts often and, for fans’ sake, is kind of just waiting for executives to decide where they’ll locate their TV studio. [TSN]
• In a good sign for the Avalanche should Phase 3 move to Phase 4 and beyond, Mikko Rantanen is back skating after an injury that could’ve ended his season. [NHL]
• Ryan O’Reilly says there is concern for family and friends, but he thinks the league is going about this with the right approach. [NHL | TSN]
• With the theme week, Broad Street Hockey is picking on some...surprise rivals for the Flyers. Like Calgary. [BSH]