Islanders Approach NHL Trade Deadline with Optimism

Team has two first-round picks and cap space to make moves

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The New York Islanders are in a good position to make trades at the upcoming NHL trade deadline, with two first-round picks in the 2026 draft, decent prospect depth, and over $6 million in available salary cap space. While key players like Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Anders Lee are expected to stay, the team is actively exploring options to improve the roster.

Why it matters

The Islanders' strong position heading into the trade deadline gives them an opportunity to bolster their team and make a push for the playoffs. As they sit tied for second place in the Metropolitan Division, strategic trades could help them solidify their standing and potentially make a deep postseason run.

The details

The Islanders have been active in trade discussions, with general manager Mathieu Darche reportedly calling every other team in the league to explore potential deals. While specific trade targets have not been confirmed, the team's available assets and cap space suggest they have the flexibility to make impactful moves.

  • The NHL trade deadline is on Friday, March 6, 2026.

The players

Jean-Gabriel Pageau

A key forward for the Islanders who was previously thought to be a potential trade target, but is now expected to remain with the team.

Anders Lee

Another important Islanders player who is likely to stay with the team through the trade deadline.

Mathieu Darche

The Islanders' general manager, who is actively engaged in trade discussions with other teams around the league.

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What they’re saying

“Mathieu Darche is calling every GM in the league right now. This isn't me reporting anything that isn't obvious. It's to note that any kind of reporting that centers around 'X general manager checked in on Y player' doesn't really mean anything this time of year. It's every general manager's job to be on the phone with 31 other general managers, checking in on every player, constantly.”

— Ethan Sears, Author (nypost.com)

What’s next

The Islanders will have until the trade deadline on Friday, March 6, 2026, to finalize any trades to improve their roster for the remainder of the season and the playoffs.

The takeaway

The Islanders' strong position heading into the trade deadline gives them an opportunity to make strategic moves to bolster their roster and make a push for the playoffs. While specific trade targets have not been confirmed, the team's available assets and cap space suggest they have the flexibility to make impactful additions to their team.