As an Isles fan, we can absolutely not lock ourselves into a UFA winger long term. We need to give the core we have 1 more chance before re-tooling around Barzal, Dobson, Wahlstrom and our current weak prospect pool. While I like acquiring Chychrun, we just can't lock ourselves into Forsberg/Gaudrea/Fiala/etc. for 7-10 million long term. It's stupid contracts that cost us the flexibility needed to continue as contenders, and stupid contract are not the answer.

Jets can’t take Bailey unless Islanders take Wheeler in exchange

Not sure they can do it. I've had that thought myself but the cap is way too high. Would have to be very creative. And in a post like this where they sign a big UFA that would be impossible

Isles aren't going to rebuild so I think these guys need to be considered. Fiala should be the most realistic target because of his age and MIN's cap situation. These guys aren't Andrew Ladd's of the world. They will significantly improve this team and hopefully be enough to put us over the top

What if the Jets took Panik too?

He only counts $250k against the cap when he's buried. It doesn't do enough. I'd consider a Wheeler/Bailey swap if they aren't signing a big fish UFA. Would also probably want some retention. Isles would be adding over $3m to the cap