The New York Islanders have acquired restricted free agent forward Dmytro Timashov from the Detroit Red Wings in exchange for future considerations. Timashov does not yet have a contract for the 2020-21 season.
It shouldn’t come as much of a surprise to see Timashov head to the Islanders, given he is a well-known commodity in the eyes of GM Lou Lamoriello. The 24-year-old winger was selected in the fifth round by the Toronto Maple Leafs just a month before Lamoriello took over as that team’s GM, meaning he oversaw Timashov’s development for years.
After several strong seasons in the AHL where he was used as a quarterback on the powerplay (operating from the half wall) and winning a Calder Cup in 2018, Timashov got his chance in the NHL this past season. In 39 games for the Maple Leafs he registered nine points, but was eventually the odd man out and found himself on waivers at the trade deadline. The Red Wings claimed him and Timashov would play five more games with Detroit, failing to register a point.
Even in Detroit, there didn’t seem like a ton of opportunity for Timashov, so perhaps a move to New York will give him a chance to play in the NHL again. Even if he wants to play in the AHL he’ll need a new contract, but perhaps Lamoriello knows that he’ll be able to work that out. It’s not as though he represents a ton of upside, but getting even a fringe NHL player for “future considerations” is usually worth it. In a year where a taxi squad or expanded rosters could be used, Timashov may fit that role of an in-betweener perfectly.
Another Lamiorello/Leafs connection deal.