The cost-cutting Islanders are on the verge of dealing sniper Ziggy Palffy, an NHL source told The Post yesterday.
Palffy is expected to be dealt in the next few days, perhaps for a package of prospects and a high first-round pick in this year’s draft.
The three leading candidates for Palffy’s services are from the Western Conference – lottery teams L.A. and Vancouver, and recently dethroned Detroit.
A total of six teams are in the mix. The Blackhawks are another contender.
The Isles are attempting to acquire two young defensive prospects from the Kings, including ’98 first- rounder Mathieu Biron.
Vancouver GM Brian Burke, who pondered trading Pavel Bure for Palffy last winter, is one of the finalists, too. The Isles have interest in young Canuck forwards Josh Holden and Pete Schaeffer.
Isle GM Mike Milbury also is trying to obtain the Canucks’ third overall pick.
Two weeks ago, the Isles decided they would move Palffy before the June 26 draft to take advantage of a sweet crop.
The Isles are continuing to cut payroll because they don’t have an arena deal in place. Palffy will make $5 million next season.
This past Saturday, the Isles sent captain Trevor Linden to Montreal for the 10th pick in the draft.