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3w ago

Islanders Face Tough Decision After Securing No. 1 NHL Draft Pick

With a new general manager yet to be named, the team weighs top prospects, including Long Island native James Hagens, ahead of the June draft.

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Overview

  • The New York Islanders defied 3.5% odds to win the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery, earning the top overall pick for the first time since 2009.
  • James Hagens, a hometown prospect from Hauppauge, New York, is a sentimental favorite but currently ranks third among North American skaters according to NHL Central Scouting.
  • Top-ranked defenseman Matthew Schaefer and forward Michael Misa are also strong contenders for the No. 1 pick, each offering elite skills and potential.
  • Betting markets reflect growing speculation about Hagens, with his odds to be drafted first improving from +375 to +225 since the Islanders won the lottery.
  • The franchise is navigating this pivotal decision without a general manager after parting ways with Lou Lamoriello in April, adding further complexity to the process.