As the calendar inches closer to free agency, one of the biggest storylines facing the NY Islanders isn't about a potential addition—it's about whether their captain will remain with the organization he's called home for more than a decade.
Appearing on Don, Hahn and Rosenberg on ESPN Radio, Anders Lee spoke candidly about his future and the difficult reality that both he and the Islanders must confront as he enters the final year of his contract.
For Lee, the situation is about far more than hockey.
"For sure. I mean, this has been my home. It's been my home for a long time. I've raised my family here, and it's been a privilege to be an Islander and to be a captain of this team," Lee said.
"It's been a privilege to be an Islander and to be a captain of this team . . . would love to make this happen" - @leeberr09 on his upcoming FA pic.twitter.com/oVImPM6oIM
— Don, Hahn & Rosenberg (@DHRonESPN) June 2, 2026
The 35-year-old captain has been one of the defining faces of the franchise since John Tavares departed in 2018. Through playoff runs, coaching changes, and the transition from Nassau Coliseum to UBS Arena, Lee has remained a steady presence both on and off the ice.
His comments reflected both appreciation and realism.
"I've loved every second of it and haven't taken anything for granted. You know, this is the part that comes up every once in a while. It's my turn to go through it," Lee added.
While the business side of hockey can often force difficult decisions, Lee made it clear he still believes he has plenty left to offer.
"I feel like I got a lot of good years left of hockey in me and I still feel really good out there. So, we'll love to make this happen."
For new General Manager Mathieu Darche, the decision won't be easy. Lee remains a productive forward, respected leader, and beloved figure in the community. Whether both sides can find common ground remains to be seen, but it's clear Lee's preference is to finish what he started on Long I
