The New York Islanders have something every franchise craves: a cornerstone defenseman in Matthew Schaefer. The young blueliner is already flashing elite-level play, anchoring the back end with poise, vision, and the kind of two-way game that’s hard to find. But while Schaefer looks like he’s ready to carry the torch on the left side for years to come, the Islanders’ depth chart on the right side of the blue line is a different story - and that’s where things start to get interesting.
On the left, they’ve built a promising pipeline. Isaiah George, Marshall Warren, and Jesse Pulkkinen all bring intriguing skill sets and project as potential NHL contributors.
But when you flip to the right side, it’s clear the organization is thin. And that’s a problem, especially when you’ve got a talent like Schaefer who could benefit from a true top-pairing partner to elevate his game even further.
The Islanders took a swing this past offseason, reportedly targeting Simon Nemec, a highly regarded right-shot defenseman. While the attempt didn’t pan out, the logic behind the move was sound: find a long-term running mate for Schaefer. With that in mind, let’s take a look at three right-handed defensemen around the league who could be on the Islanders’ radar - players who might not be stars yet, but could fit the bill as Schaefer’s long-term partner.
David Jiricek - Minnesota Wild
Jiricek is a name that still carries weight. A former top-10 pick, he’s got the pedigree and the tools, but he hasn’t quite found his footing in the NHL.
After being dealt from Columbus to Minnesota in a trade that included four draft picks - one of them a first-rounder - expectations remained high. But this season, Jiricek has struggled to make an impact offensively, going pointless in 12 NHL games so far.
He’s also spent time with the AHL’s Iowa Wild, where he put up two points in five games.
The talent is there - size, shot, and skating - but he hasn’t been able to lock down a consistent role in Minnesota’s lineup. That could open a window for the Islanders.
If the Wild are willing to listen, Jiricek might be a player worth gambling on. He’s still young, still developing, and a change of scenery - especially one that offers a steady partner like Schaefer - might be exactly what he needs to unlock his potential.
Logan Mailloux - St. Louis Blues
Mailloux is another intriguing option. Many expected him to be part of the return in the Noah Dobson trade talks, but instead the Islanders went with Emil Heineman - a move that’s worked out well so far.
Mailloux, meanwhile, was moved from Montreal to St. Louis in exchange for Zach Bolduc.
There’s no denying Mailloux entered the league with off-ice baggage, which caused several teams to pass on him during his draft year. But since turning pro, he’s shown signs of growth both on and off the ice.
He’s a big-bodied, right-shot defenseman who plays with an edge and has a heavy shot from the point. With the Blues, his path to NHL minutes is crowded.
But on Long Island, he’d likely have a clearer runway - and potentially a top-four role next to Schaefer. That kind of opportunity could be mutually beneficial.
Jack Thompson - San Jose Sharks
If the Islanders are looking for a more affordable option, Jack Thompson might be the name to circle. Originally drafted by Tampa Bay, Thompson was moved to San Jose as part of the Sharks’ ongoing rebuild. He hasn’t seen NHL action yet this season, but last year he suited up for 31 games and posted 10 points - solid production for a young defenseman adjusting to the league.
Thompson profiles as a middle-pairing guy with upside. He moves the puck well, has decent size, and can handle second-unit power play duties if needed.
Of the three names mentioned here, he’d likely come at the lowest acquisition cost. But sometimes, all a player needs is a real shot.
With the Islanders, Thompson could get that chance - and if he clicks with Schaefer, the payoff could be bigger than expected.
The Islanders have their franchise piece in Schaefer. Now it’s about finding the right partner to complement his game and solidify the top pairing for the long haul.
Whether it’s a high-upside play like Jiricek, a physical presence with offensive tools like Mailloux, or a steady, under-the-radar option like Thompson, the Isles have options. The question is: how aggressive will they be in filling that void on the right side?
Because with Schaefer already looking like the real deal, the time to build around him is now.