New York Islanders captain Anders Lee is set to enter free agency after the team was informed of his decision. Despite the Islanders attempting to improve their offer, it fell short of what Lee was looking for. The 35-year-old, who has played 14 seasons with the Isles, will explore other options while the door remains slightly open for the team to re-sign him. Lee's departure would end a significant chapter in Islanders history, as he has been a key player since being drafted in 2009.

By the Numbers
  • Lee has scored 308 goals and has 549 points in 923 games with the Islanders.
  • He achieved a 42-point season in 2025-26, with 19 of those being goals.
Yes, But

While Lee is transitioning to free agency, the Islanders have not completely closed the door regarding re-signing their captain. Competing for top players in free agency may dilute their chances, given Lee’s stature and performance on the ice.

State of Play
  • The Islanders made a final offer to retain Lee but were unsuccessful.
  • Lee has participated in five Stanley Cup Playoffs with the Islanders, achieving semifinal berths in 2020 and 2021.
What's Next

As free agency opens, Lee will likely consider offers from multiple teams, which might include contenders looking for experienced depth. The Islanders must determine if they will make another attempt to negotiate with him or focus elsewhere.

Bottom Line

Anders Lee's shift to free agency marks a pivotal moment for the Islanders, reflecting both the challenges of retaining key players and the evolving landscape of the NHL. His leadership and scoring prowess will attract interest, potentially reshaping the teams involved.