2025-26
Record: 43-34-5, 91 points, 6th in Metropolitan Division
Playoffs: Missed Stanley Cup Playoffs
Key Losses
F – Anders Lee (UTH), G – David Rittich (NJ), F – Maxim Shabanov (MIN)
Key Additions
F – Matias Maccelli (Signed via FA), G – Vitek Vanecek (Signed via FA)
2026-27 Preview
Fully Implementing Pete Deboer’s System
The New York Islanders made a significant change behind the bench late in the 2025-26 season, relieving Patrick Roy of his duties and naming Pete DeBoer as head coach. Unlike some coaching changes made solely to spark a team during a playoff run, the Islanders’ decision was made with a long-term vision in mind, giving DeBoer an opportunity to begin laying the foundation for the future before the start of the 2026-27 season.
That early arrival gave DeBoer valuable time to introduce his system, which emphasizes an aggressive, up-tempo style of play. His teams are known for generating offense through puck possession, encouraging defensemen to join the rush, and applying consistent pressure in all three zones. It represents a noticeable shift from the more conservative style the Islanders have often employed in recent years.
Whether that system reaches its full potential, however, will depend on the roster. Former general manager Lou Lamoriello assembled a veteran-heavy group that, while competitive, has gradually become slower and less dynamic. New general manager Mathieu Darche now faces the challenge of reshaping the roster by adding more youth, speed, and offensive skill while maintaining the defensive structure that has long been part of the Islanders’ identity.
The Islanders still have a solid foundation and enough talent to remain competitive, but they are likely still a step away from being considered a true Stanley Cup contender. If Darche can successfully modernize the roster and DeBoer’s system takes hold, New York could become one of the more dangerous teams in the Eastern Conference. Regardless, the Islanders should not be overlooked, as DeBoer’s track record suggests they will be a disciplined and difficult opponent every night.
Are They Good, or is it just Matthew Schaefer?
Heading into the 2026-27 season, all eyes will be on Matthew Schaefer as he begins his sophomore campaign following a remarkable rookie season. The 2026 Calder Memorial Trophy winner quickly established himself as one of the NHL’s brightest young defensemen, becoming a driving force behind the Islanders’ success. Alongside goaltenders Ilya Sorokin and David Rittich, Schaefer played a pivotal role in keeping New York competitive throughout the season. The challenge now is proving that his breakout year was only the beginning.
Expectations will be significantly higher this season, as opposing teams will be far more familiar with Schaefer’s game. If he can continue producing offensively while handling increased responsibilities against top competition, he has the potential to establish himself among the league’s elite defensemen.
The Islanders are also hoping for stability in goal. While Sorokin remains one of the NHL’s top goaltenders, the backup position is less certain following Rittich’s departure to New Jersey. The organization is optimistic that Semyon Varlamov can return after missing the entire 2025-26 season while recovering from double knee replacement surgery. However, recognizing the uncertainty surrounding his health, New York signed former Stanley Cup champion Vitek Vanecek to provide experienced depth and insurance should Varlamov be unable to return to full strength.
The blue line also presents some questions beyond Schaefer. Ryan Pulock and Adam Pelech continue to provide a dependable veteran presence, but there is a noticeable drop in overall impact behind the Islanders’ top pairing. Tony DeAngelo can still contribute offensively, particularly on the power play, but his defensive shortcomings remain a concern. Alexander Romanov has shown he can be an effective shutdown defenseman when healthy, though injuries limited him for much of last season. Meanwhile, Scott Mayfield will need to bounce back after an inconsistent campaign if the Islanders hope to strengthen their defensive depth.
Schaefer’s emergence transformed the Islanders during his rookie season, but repeating that success will require more than one player. New York will need improved health, steadier play throughout its defensive corps, and another outstanding year from Sorokin if it hopes to build on last season’s progress. If Schaefer can continue his ascent and the supporting cast takes a step forward, the Islanders have the potential to surprise a number of teams in the Eastern Conference once again.
Projected Lineup
Offense
Simon Holmstrom — Bo Horvat — Mathew Barzal
Calum Ritchie — Brayden Schenn — Emil Heineman
Victor Eklund — Jean-Gabriel Pageau — Kyle Palmieri
Ondrej Palat — Casey Cizikas — Matias Maccelli
Defense
Matthew Schaefer — Ryan Pulock
Adam Pelech — Tony DeAngelo
Alexander Romanov — Scott Mayfield
Goalies
Ilya Sorokin
Semyon Varlamov