New York Islanders captain Anders Lee will test the NHL’s unrestricted free-agent market this offseason after contract negotiations with the team do not result in an agreement, according to reports. Lee tells the Islanders that he will become an unrestricted free agent, a status that begins July 1 when free agency opens. The decision follows months of discussions between Lee and the Islanders that ultimately “fall short” of a contract. Multiple outlets report that, while Lee is expected to pursue free agency, an Islanders option may still remain open depending on the final terms and timing of the process. The development places Lee in the unrestricted free-agent market, where other teams can attempt to sign him during the league’s free-agency window. The reports indicate that Lee’s move is primarily tied to negotiations reaching an impasse, rather than a completed agreement. As free agency approaches, contenders are expected to have the opportunity to pursue the veteran captain’s services.