The New York Islanders have made another addition to their front office, hiring Steve Pellegrini as an Assistant General Manager. Pellegrini will work along with current AGM Chris Lamoriello, and has previous experience with GM Lou Lamoriello from their days with the New Jersey Devils.
Pellegrini has experience with player development and acquisition, but really brings expertise in all things CBA related after working with the NHL’s Central Registry for the better part of a decade. Very familiar with contract terms and cap structure, he’ll be a worthwhile addition to a front office trying to turn around a struggling franchise. Lamoriello has been known for his “loophole” tactics, many of which were done with Pellegrini by his side in New Jersey.
Bringing in a skilled negotiator can only help the Islanders as they desperately try to retain John Tavares before he hits the open market in a few weeks. Other teams are allowed to speak with the star forward just a few days after the upcoming draft, which would likely only weaken the Islanders position. A mega contract of that type obviously has cap ramifications, something that Pellegrini will be able to help with as the Islanders try to navigate future deals with young star Mathew Barzal and others.