Wild's Vanek would have stayed an Islander 'had the team stayed here on the island'

With the New York Islanders sitting where they are, it's scary to think they could have added another valuable piece, if not for one small detail. 

Prior to Tuesday's game between the Islanders and the Minnesota Wild, Thomas Vanek opened up about his decision to move on from Long Island and it seems that the team's relocation was the biggest factor. 

Even though it was a short stint, I only have good memories and good things to say (about the Islanders). ... The thing is I would have stayed had the team stayed here on the island and not moved (to Brooklyn). But other than that it was a great time.

The Isles were also apparently very keen on keeping the winger, reportedly offering him a large contract extension that he ultimately rejected.

Though he played just part of the 2013-14 season with the Isles, Vanek made a big impact. He had 17 goals and 44 points in 47 games, but felt the travel to Brooklyn for games would be difficult for his family. 

As far as family-wise I think it would be tough for my kids, my wife to go to Brooklyn on game days. I didn't see that fit. Hopefully it works out and I was wrong. But at the time it kind of scared me off.

In his first full season with the Wild, Vanek has 19 goals and 49 points in 72 games.