[ThePundit]

Garth Snow's first real test as GM. Who will blink first?

BOSTON - Impatient with the lack of progress toward a long-term contract, All-Star forward Jason Blake yesterday said he probably will leave as a free agent if the Islanders don't sign him by the Feb. 27 NHL trade deadline.

"If they don't want to sign me, maybe they should trade me and get something that's good for them," Blake said. "If I'm not signed by the 27th, then I'm going to test the market, and I don't think I'll be back."

At 33, Blake is in the middle of a career season in which he has 27 goals, one short of his career high, and 21 assists to lead the team with 48 points. Currently making $1.56 million, Blake is seeking a five-year deal likely worth somewhere in the vicinity of $18 million.

Islanders general manager Garth Snow has taken a cautious approach toward committing to a long-term deal, a stance Blake interprets as a lack of serious interest. Neil Sheehy, Blake's agent, said he and Snow have talked a couple of times but are "no closer to a deal at this point."

Snow and coach Ted Nolan both said they have no plans to trade Blake at the deadline and have not shopped him around the league to test his value. But Blake is bothered by the lack of urgency to get a deal done.

"I'm not saying they owe me anything," Blake said. "But I've been here six years. You expect there would be some loyalty. But I don't think it's going to get done before the trade deadline."

"I'd like to stay," Blake said. Referring to Islanders owner Charles Wang, he added, "I like Mr. Wang, and I think it's a good organization with a good bunch of guys. But there are 29 [other] teams. I'll test the market and see what's out there for me and who wants me."

Blake: It's a deal or no deal - Newsday.com

[blueandwhite]

I love that "where's the loyalty" line. There is no loyalty in the NHL anymore, from either side, suits or sweaters. both sides are looking at $$$$.
But they'd be nuts to let him go. I wonder if it's just the 15 mill tag, if they want it lower. It's all a game of who blinks first these days.

[ThePundit]

Blake is 33 already. So what are they going to get in the 4th and 5th year of the dea?. Having said that, 3.5 million isn't that unreasonable, so if it's 5 for 18 or lose him, I would just sign him.

[MJHMarc]

I like Jason Blake. He obviously is either unhappy with the organization's direction, or he wants more money. Quite frankly, I think he is pushing for both.

[ThePundit]

Originally Posted by MJHMarc

I like Jason Blake. He obviously is either unhappy with the organization's direction, or he wants more money. Quite frankly, I think he is pushing for both.

It's the money thing.

[MJHMarc]

But, do you think he is pleased without a Stanley Cup?

[ThePundit]

Greg Logan of Newsday pretty much sums it up:

The good news is that I’m certain both sides will negotiate in good faith on Blake’s asking price of five years for somewhere in the vicinity of $18 million. If you look at the financial aspect and where Blake should fit on the Islanders’ payroll, they’re in the same ballpark.

The question for Snow is the length of a contract. How many years can he risk on a player who turns 34 in September but obviously keeps himself in top shape, has speed the Islanders need and competes as well as anyone on the team? The question for Blake is how much he’s willing to bend to fit within the structure Snow and coach Ted Nolan are trying to build to contend for the Stanley Cup. Does he believe this franchise is on the right path after several years of mismanagement?

They have a lot to think about and not much time to come up with an answer.

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