New York Islanders Rumors: Isles could lose prospect, Parise’s future in the air, need for youth
By Marci Rubin
New York Islanders Rumors: Zach Parise’s future is up in the air
Veteran Zach Parise has yet to make a decision about playing next season. The Islanders are wondering if he’s up for one more year. The soon-to-be 39-year-old winger previously played for the Minnesota Wild and New Jersey Devils. His Isles teammates, Brock Nelson and captain Anders Lee, are hoping that Parise will return.
Nelson and Lee recently spoke to NHL.com about Parise. Nelson noted that Parise wants to win.
“I definitely would love to have him back,” he said. “I think he’d be a big part of the team.”
While it’s clear he hopes Parise sticks around, he said, “I haven’t pushed Zach at all, just let him take his time.” Nelson expressed that if Parise chooses to retire, he wishes him the best.
Lee weighed in on Parise, stating, “It’s really special to play with a guy like that.” The captain noted, “you can’t find a better guy in the room.”
It’s evident that Parise’s teammates have great respect for him, and he’d be an important part of the roster should he choose to return.
Should Parise decide to keep playing, the Isles seem inclined to find a spot for him. If they don’t, though, would he consider playing elsewhere to wrap up his career? Despite his age, he’s still proved he’s still a valuable NHL player. If Parise’s not ready to hang it up, he could squeeze out one more year on the ice.