New York Islanders captain Anders Lee will officially test the unrestricted free-agent market after contract negotiations with the organization failed to produce an agreement. The decision ends months of discussions and opens the door for several contenders to pursue one of the top veteran forwards available.
TSN insider Pierre LeBrun reported the development on X after learning the two sides could not bridge the remaining gap.
"The Islanders were informed this morning that captain Anders Lee is headed to the UFA market," LeBrun wrote.
He added, "Not a decision that was taken lightly. The Isles improved their offer in late stages, but still not there."
Despite the setback, LeBrun indicated the relationship has not completely ended.