The New York Islanders: A Competitive Force
The New York Islanders are gradually proving themselves to be a competitive force in the NHL, with a genuine shot at reaching the playoffs. While they are often overlooked in discussions about Stanley Cup favorites, enhancing their roster could certainly propel them into that elite conversation.
Areas for Improvement
A crucial area for improvement is bolstering their defensive lineup, particularly by acquiring a top-tier right-handed defenseman. Such a player could forge a significant partnership with Matthew Schaefer, the number one overall draft pick, over the next several years.
Potential Trade Candidate: Filip Hronek
One prominent candidate who could fulfill this role is Filip Hronek, currently with the Vancouver Canucks. At 28 years old, Hronek has a five-year contract that pays him $7.25 million annually, along with a full no-move clause granting him substantial control over any potential trade.
With Vancouver facing notable challenges and reportedly looking to offload some veterans—excluding star player Quinn Hughes—Hronek may become a trade option if the appropriate team expresses interest.
Connection Between Hronek and the Islanders
During the trade that sent Bo Horvat to New York, the Canucks received the Islanders’ first-round pick in the 2023 draft, which they subsequently traded to the Detroit Red Wings for Hronek before the last trade deadline.
Although he initially teamed up with Hughes as a key skater, Hronek is now part of the second defensive pairing alongside Tyler Myers.
Should Hronek make his way to Long Island, the irony would not go unnoticed, considering his past trades. However, his age and skill level align well with the Islanders’ current ambitions. Additionally, his agent, Allan Walsh, is also representing Jonathan Drouin, who recently secured a two-year contract worth $4 million per season with the Islanders.
Trade Considerations
The pressing concern now lies in the trade cost necessary to lure Hronek away from Vancouver. The Canucks find themselves in a weak bargaining position due to Hronek’s no-move clause; if he signals a desire to leave, the Islanders could negotiate without feeling compelled to assemble the most attractive deal—merely an acceptable one would suffice.
Hronek was initially traded for the Islanders’ 2023 first-round pick and a second-round pick from Vancouver. While the Islanders hold Colorado’s 2026 first-round pick from a previous transaction involving Brock Nelson, their own first-round pick may present greater appeal. Unfortunately, Chicago currently possesses the Islanders’ second-round pick from the Josh Bailey trade at the 2022 NHL Draft.
Proposed Trade Scenario
A potential trade scenario could involve the Islanders offering their 2026 first-round pick, a future conditional third-round pick, and a forward who adds depth to the roster. In his most recent game appearances this season, Hronek has shown his capability, recording 13 points (two goals and 11 assists) over 23 games and averaging over 24 minutes of ice time while maintaining disciplined play with just four penalties.
