Kyle Palmieri’s Journey in the NHL
In the sporting world, it’s noteworthy when an athlete finds their footing with a team after a significant career transition. Kyle Palmieri, now in his fifth full season with the New York Islanders, made that shift following his move from the New Jersey Devils just before the NHL’s 2021 trade deadline.
Local Roots and Early Career
Hailing from Smithtown, Long Island, but having been raised in Montvale, New Jersey—a distance of approximately 40 minutes from the Prudential Center—Palmieri’s local roots added a personal touch to his career journey.
Starting his NHL career with the Anaheim Ducks, Palmieri joined the Devils in 2016 as an unrestricted free agent, signing a lucrative five-year contract valued at $4.65 million annually. Heading into the 2020-2021 season, which was delayed due to the pandemic, Palmieri sensed that his tenure with the Devils was nearing its end.
Trade to the Islanders
With the trade deadline approaching, he awaited word on his possible destinations.
“It was kind of a weird situation,”
he recounted in an interview with The Hockey News.
“I had conversations with general manager Tom Fitzgerald, so I knew what the situation was and had to wait for things to unfold.”
On April 7, 2021, the Islanders made their move, acquiring Palmieri along with teammate Travis Zajac in exchange for players A.J. Greer and Mason Jobst, as well as a 2021 first-round draft pick and a conditional fourth-round pick in 2022. With a modified no-trade clause in his contract, Palmieri had some influence over his destination. Although COVID-19 restrictions limited options, he ultimately valued the opportunity to win with a competitive team.
“The Islanders were at the top of my list,”
he stated.
Adjustment and Success
But was his preference influenced by his Long Island origins? Though he acknowledged a level of comfort with the move back home, Palmieri emphasized the importance of joining a team with winning potential, especially since he had experienced the rebuilding phase with New Jersey.
Transitioning alongside Zajac eased Palmieri’s adjustment to the Islanders, connecting him with both familiar players and a welcoming environment. Five years into his time on Long Island, Palmieri has become a cornerstone for the team, overcoming injury struggles from his first full season.
At the conclusion of last season, after confidently participating in all 82 games for two consecutive years, he secured a two-year extension with the Islanders worth $4.75 million per year. This season, he has already made contributions with four goals and seven assists across 15 games.
Upcoming Game
Tonight, Palmieri will line up alongside teammates Bo Horvat and Emil Heineman on the Islanders’ top line as they face off against his former team, the Devils, at 7 PM ET, broadcast on MSGSN2.
