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2w ago

Islanders Lock in No. 1 Pick and Pursue Second Top-10 Selection

Darche plans to select defenseman Matthew Schaefer with the first pick, seeking to acquire a second top-10 selection as part of the rebuild.

Mathieu Darche speaks as he is introduced as the new General Manager of the New York Islanders at UBS Arena in Elmont, N.Y., Thursday, May 29, 2025. (Howard Schnapp/Newsday via AP)
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Overview

  • Darche confirmed the Islanders will not trade the No. 1 overall pick, virtually ensuring Matthew Schaefer goes first.
  • The general manager said he is open to dealing assets for another top-10 slot, with Long Island native James Hagens as a leading target.
  • Darche has overhauled the hockey operations staff, hiring new NHL and AHL coaches along with assistant GM Ryan Bowness.
  • Key restricted free agents Noah Dobson and Alexander Romanov carry arbitration rights and are expected to be retained amid outside interest.
  • Recent moves by Metro Division rivals highlight the urgency to inject youth and speed after missing the playoffs.