New York Islanders Prepare for NHL Draft
As the New York Islanders’ first NHL draft looms closer, general manager Mathieu Darche is navigating a whirlwind of calls while affirming his stance on the team’s top pick.
With the draft scheduled for Friday, Darche is unequivocal: the Islanders will not be parting ways with the coveted No. 1 selection, projected to land the promising defenseman Matthew Schaefer.
Darche’s Commitment to the Draft
During a video conference with the press, Darche stated,
“I’m not trading the 1, but you look at everything, right?”
He elaborated on the constant inquiries from other teams regarding various trade possibilities, emphasizing the importance of his role in conducting thorough evaluations of potential opportunities to bolster the Islanders.
“Every single day, I’m trying to improve the New York Islanders,”
he added, hinting at the ongoing research into players’ character and background, an essential factor when making selections. While Darche has some clear favorites, including Schaefer, Misa, and Frondell, he knows the final decision may evolve as expectations shift leading up to draft day.
“We all know the talent at this point… regardless of who we pick on Friday, we’ll get a special player that is going to help the New York Islanders fairly quickly,”
he asserted regarding the wealth of talent available.
Local Star and Potential Trades
In light of local star James Hagens, a potential top-10 selection and Long Island native, fans have been speculating about the possibility of the Islanders trading to secure both Hagens and Schaefer. Reflecting on his childhood experiences supporting the Islanders, Hagens expressed excitement on hearing of the team’s recent lottery win that granted them the first pick. Though doubts about his standing as the top prospect persist, local enthusiasm for his selection remains palpable.
“If I feel the opportunity warrants that trade, I’ll try it,”
Darche remarked on his willingness to explore options that might elevate the team, whether it’s moving up in the draft or trading picks for established players. Amidst this atmosphere of speculation, Hagens recalled moments where fans have publicly voiced their support, a testament to the community’s hope for an exciting future for the Islanders.
