Islanders' Lee not concerned with Tavares' contract situation

Speculation about John Tavares' future hasn't seeped into the New York Islanders' dressing room.

The club's captain will become an unrestricted free agent in July if an extension isn't reached. An unsigned Tavares could mean speculation the likes of which was seen during the 2015-2016 season when Steven Stamkos approached July 1 without a new deal.

Nevertheless, it appears likely - as was the case with Stamkos - that Tavares will return to the only team he's ever known. In fact, teammate Anders Lee is confident that will be the case.

"Johnny's taking his time," Lee said, according to NHL.com's Brian Compton. "There are few times in our careers where we have the power in the situation. I'm not worried about Johnny (returning) in the slightest. He means everything he says, and he's a great teammate and a great player and leader. He's the captain of our team and I don't expect that to change."

Earlier this month, Tavares was candid, suggesting he would like to return to the Islanders, saying he wants his "experience" with the Islanders to continue.

"I think more than anything, the players, we can't worry about that," said Lee. "It doesn't really bother us because we know where Johnny stands and what he means to this team, and how much he cares about our organization.

"At the same time, he's got to do his due diligence and whatever that is, it's good for him and we all support him on that. We can't worry about things we can't control, especially the guys not involved."

Tavares has been team captain since the 2013-14 season and ranks eighth and ninth on the Islanders' all-time goals and points lists, respectively. He's sure to climb those ranks as long as he remains with the club, which Lee obviously expects.

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