"This is not a punishment," Lamoriello said when asked about Ho-Sang not heading to the AHL. "I told the representative that I would explore that request. It's going to take a few days.
"If there isn't a transaction that's in the best interest of the organization, Josh will report to Bridgeport."
Ho-Sang, selected by the Islanders with the No. 28 pick in the 2014 NHL Draft, was among the final three players cut by New York on Monday. He cleared waivers but has not reported to Bridgeport.
"Nothing surprises me anymore," Lamoriello said. "I didn't think of it, but I understand it. Even if you know you're being fair and honest with somebody, they may not feel the same way. So we will honor this request and then if it doesn't work out, you can look somebody right in the eye and say, 'It is what it is.'"
Ho-Sang has 24 points (seven goals, 17 assists) 53 NHL games in the past three seasons. He had one goal and one assist in 10 games with the Islanders last season.
New York opens its regular season against the Washington Capitals at Nassau Coliseum on Friday (7 p.m. ET; MSG+, NBCSWA, NHL.TV).
