The Islanders are set to secure the top overall pick at next week’s development camp, with potential implications for October as well.
The key question remains whether this will be their sole high draft pick. General Manager Mathieu Darche has hinted at the possibility of trading for a second top-10 pick during a discussion on Tuesday morning.
“I’m considering all options,” Darche mentioned on a Zoom call. “If an opportunity arises that feels right, it’s worth exploring. There are costs involved in moving into the top 10, but if it makes sense, I’d definitely consider it. I’m evaluating everything to enhance our team, whether that means acquiring another pick or trading for a player.”
Fans, perhaps dreamily, imagine adding both defenseman Matthew Schafer and forward James Hagens to the roster come Friday night.
Experts widely agree that Schafer is the kind of player the Islanders have desperately needed on defense, possibly ending a lengthy struggle they’ve faced for over 17 years.
Hagens, who was highly rated a year ago, brings playmaking skills and is a Long Island native—a flavor the team has seen throughout its 50+ years of history.
One of Darche’s first remarks after becoming general manager was a firm stance on not trading the No. 1 pick, a sentiment he reiterated on Tuesday.
However, several teams in the top 10 are reportedly open to trading their picks. This could allow the Islanders to enhance their standing, at least temporarily, among fans.
Though it’s not a done deal that Schafer will be their first choice, it would be unexpected if the Islanders decide to go for Michael Meatha, the top center prospect.
“I have a pretty good idea of who we’ll choose,” Darche said. “At this stage, it’s all about understanding the talent better—examining character and personality. We’re gathering lots of information and there are definitely a few players we’re interested in.”
Despite some uncertainty about whether Schafer will start the season in the NHL, he’s one of the draft’s younger players, and his previous injury (a broken collarbone) kept him off the ice for a bit last year. Darche has emphasized that any player joining the Islanders should have strong potential.
Notably, Owen Power and Eric Johnson, both No. 1 picks from this century, will not be starting their seasons in the NHL.
“In the end, it’s all about performance,” Darche explained. “I’ll evaluate these new players at the development camp following next week’s draft and also at training camp. We need to keep an open mind. Age doesn’t define readiness, and if a player needs more time, we’ll make that available. Our goal is to have him succeed in the NHL long-term.”
“Even if someone shows readiness, there’s a tendency in recent years to give them more time to develop alongside our group. Ultimately, performance will guide our decision on placement.”
