On Wednesday, Mathieu Darche focused not just on the recent trade but on potential future moves as well.
When asked about possibly trading one of their two first-round picks before the March 6 trade deadline, Darche remarked, “If it helps improve our team, we should consider it.” He added, “I’m not suggesting moving a first-round pick lightly, but having two this summer gives us some options. We’re open to the idea, if it aligns with our goals.”
However, he emphasized caution, saying, “I wouldn’t trade just to acquire a name that sounds appealing but doesn’t really fit. But if the right opportunity presents itself and the price is right, I’d consider it.” He stressed that a fair price could justify using a first-round pick.
It’s worth noting that the recent acquisitions of Carson Soucy and Ondrej Palat don’t necessarily mean the Islanders are done making moves. They still have the chance to pursue even larger trades over the next five weeks.
The earlier trades were aimed at addressing key needs while also sending a motivational message to the players.
“I want to acknowledge our players for getting us into a playoff position,” Darche stated.
That message seems to have resonated.
According to Jonathan Drouin, “The players feel that confidence from the upper management. You really want that at this time of year.”
As for filling the gap left by Alexander Romanov, the Islanders had been seeking a solid third pairing. Soucy, with his 6-foot-4 frame and penalty-killing experience, fits that bill well.
Soucy mentioned, “With the Rangers, I had an inkling a trade was coming, and this move suits my family situation. We can stay in the same area without needing to uproot.”
Regarding Palat, the Islanders have the financial capacity to accommodate his $6 million salary. His former coach, Dulce, believes Palat will be a strong asset in the playoffs.
Darche highlighted Palat’s impressive playoff statistics, noting, “His points per game and goals per game in the playoffs often exceed his regular-season performance. Even during his playoff runs with the Devils, he proved to be one of the better players.”
Palat is known for his two-way game and defensive contributions. “We aim to bolster our defensive play moving forward. Scoring is important, but it can be tough to be a top scorer this time of year. So bringing in players who excel defensively is a priority,” Darche explained.
Palat, who joined the second line with Bo Horvat and Emil Heineman, waived his no-trade clause to join the Islanders. He expressed confidence in the team’s playoff prospects and appreciated the proximity to his home in New Jersey.
“I’m hoping for better results than I had in Jersey. But I’m not aiming to become a 50-goal scorer,” Palat commented. “I’m focused on contributing to a well-rounded game that’s crucial in this league. I’ll give my all, no matter where the coaches position me.”
Before bringing in Palat, the Isles had already secured a third-round pick in the trade for Soucy. Darche noted that the potential to receive a pick from New Jersey didn’t influence his comfort in the trade; he would have proceeded with both deals separately.
“I’m focused on improving our team continuously, whether it’s through our personnel or player transactions,” Darche stated. “I don’t just make trades for the sake of making them; they’re meant to enhance our roster. I believe the addition of these two players has made us a stronger team than we were yesterday. If opportunities arise to make further improvements, we’ll explore them, as we still have some cap flexibility.”
