The New York Islanders find themselves in an unexpected position, holding the third spot in the Metropolitan Division as they emerge from the Olympic break. After last season's struggles, few predicted they'd be here.
Now, new GM Mathieu Darche faces his first NHL trade deadline with playoff aspirations on the horizon. So, what should Islanders fans be hoping for, and what scenarios could haunt them?
With over $6 million in cap space and a wealth of picks and prospects, the Islanders have options. They also have two pending free agents, JG Pageau and captain Anders Lee, who could be valuable trade chips if the team decides to sell. Darche's choices could lead to vastly different outcomes.
Matthew Schaefer has been a revelation, delivering a Calder Trophy-worthy season that has energized both the locker room and the fan base. A bold move at the trade deadline could be just the ticket.
St. Louis Blues center Robert Thomas would be a dream acquisition for the Islanders.
The Blues are struggling, and with a new GM on the horizon, both Thomas and Jordan Kyrou might be on the move. While both have trade protection, the prospect of joining a rising Islanders team could be enticing enough for them to waive it.
The Islanders need a scoring boost, and Kyrou could provide that, but Thomas's ability to play center makes him a key target. Adding Thomas would allow Mathew Barzal to shift to the wing, enhancing the team's depth.
New York has the assets to make this happen, including two first-round picks this year. Trading the Avalanche's pick, along with top forward prospect Cole Eiserman and possibly Pageau, could seal the deal.
Even if they land a pending free agent, making a move at the deadline is crucial. After an electrifying start to the season, the Islanders could use a jolt. Darche has already brought in Ondrej Palat and Carson Soucy, but more reinforcements are needed.
The NHL trade deadline is always a whirlwind, with contenders stocking up and struggling teams selling off. The Islanders, sitting in the middle, must decide their path by March 6. Standing still isn't an option.
In the past, the Islanders have hesitated, like in 2022 when they missed the playoffs. While Semyon Varlamov's return helped later, keeping Cal Clutterbuck didn't.
The draft pick they missed out on could have been pivotal. Draft picks and prospects are gambles, but sometimes, they're the best bet.
If Pageau and Lee are still Islanders on March 7, it signals a playoff push. However, this forward group needs a significant upgrade to be true contenders. Aiming for mediocrity won't help Schaefer gain playoff experience or attract future free agents.
Darche's moves might hinge on his view of Lou Lamoriello's draft picks. Eiserman is having a strong season at Boston University, but with the Terriers unlikely to make the NCAA Tournament, he might join the Islanders soon. If Darche sees Eiserman as the solution to their scoring needs, he might opt to stand pat at the deadline.