Boyle on the Way to San Jose

The reports of the Islanders' interest in Tampa Bay defenseman certainly had me intrigued, particularly if a deal that didn't involve Chris Campoli could have been pulled off.

Let's face it: the Islanders still lack appropriate players to fill the point men roles on two power-play units. And unless Ted Nolan intends to use Mark Streit for the full power play every time, adding a defenseman with Boyle's offensive abilities and physical presence would have been a very positive move.

To this point, Campoli has shown more offensively than Bruno Gervais at the NHL level so it would have been preferable to keep him around as one of the other point men. And I don't think it would have been wise to lose the minutes and defensive prowess of Radek Martinek.

Of course, this is all moot now as TSN is reporting that Boyle has waived his no-trade clause and is on his way to the San Jose Sharks. Coming in return to the Lightning is Matt Carle, a 1st round pick, a 4th round pick, and a prospect. Brad Lukowich would accompany Boyle to San Jose.

Not a bad job by the Lightning transforming that asset into something that fits better with their recent moves. Perhaps an even better job by Garth Snow not overpaying for Boyle.


Update: Jon Jordan reports the prospect is defenseman Ty Wishart.