Joined: Jun. 2017
Posts: 373
Likes: 88
In order to consider the value of resigning in New York, you have to consider the other reasonable fits for Tavares to go to instead.
Montreal
Positives: Clear need for a #1 center, likely ability to pay 12+ million for it, superstar goalie, top notch wing talent.
Negatives: No prospect depth whatsoever, inconsistent management, Canadian market pressure
San Jose
Positives: Could use a #1 center, great living situation, experienced roster, plenty of cap space
Negatives: Mediocre prospect depth, aging roster
New York Rangers
Positives: New York market, solid young forwards, solid, moderately young defense corps
Negatives: Aging legendary goaltender, may have to carry the offense, could have not enough cap space, may not need a #1 center
New Jersey Devils
Positives: New York market (albeit slightly less so), team with upcoming forward talent, top-notch goaltending and winger, plenty of cap space
Negatives: Weak defense without many coming prospects, may not need a #1 center
Carolina
Positives: Definite need for a #1 center, stacked prospect pool, young at all positions, plenty of cap space
Negatives: Weak hockey market, inconsistent goaltending
Vegas, Vancouver, Arizona - Unlikely, but an opportunity to lead the turnaround in the making
Potentials - Florida, St. Louis, Buffalo
I think you can say at least two of those situations are better than New York Islanders, and he probably leaves for greener pastures.