Islanders Acquire Ondrej Palat, Draft Picks from Devils

New York sends forward Maxim Tsyplakov to New Jersey in the deal.

Jan. 28, 2026 at 1:23pm

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The New York Islanders have acquired forward Ondrej Palat, a third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, and a sixth-round selection in 2027 from the New Jersey Devils. In exchange, the Islanders sent forward Maxim Tsyplakov to New Jersey.

Why it matters

The move bolsters the Islanders' forward depth as they push for a playoff spot, while the Devils add a young asset in Tsyplakov. Palat is a two-time Stanley Cup champion who will provide veteran leadership and scoring punch to the Islanders' lineup.

The details

Palat, 34, has recorded 10 points (4 goals, 6 assists) in 51 games this season for the Devils. He is in the fourth year of a five-year, $30 million contract. Tsyplakov, 27, has 1 goal and 1 assist in 27 games for the Islanders this season, with his ice time dropping from an average of 14:59 to 9:39 per game.

  • The trade was completed on Tuesday, January 28, 2026.
  • Palat is set to represent Czechia at the upcoming 2026 Olympic Winter Games in Italy.

The players

Ondrej Palat

A 34-year-old forward who is a two-time Stanley Cup champion with the Tampa Bay Lightning. He has recorded 515 points (181 goals, 334 assists) in 876 career NHL games.

Maxim Tsyplakov

A 27-year-old forward who has recorded 37 points (11 goals, 26 assists) in 104 career games with the New York Islanders.

New York Islanders

An NHL team based in Uniondale, New York that competes in the Metropolitan Division.

New Jersey Devils

An NHL team based in Newark, New Jersey that competes in the Metropolitan Division.

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What they’re saying

“Palat is a proven winner and will be a great addition to our team as we push for the playoffs.”

— Lou Lamoriello, General Manager, New York Islanders (Field Level Media)

What’s next

The Islanders will look to integrate Palat into their lineup as they continue their quest for a postseason berth, while the Devils will hope Tsyplakov can regain his earlier form and contribute to their rebuild.

The takeaway

This trade represents a classic win-now move by the Islanders, who are hoping Palat's veteran experience and championship pedigree can help push them over the top. For the Devils, it's a chance to acquire a young asset in Tsyplakov as they continue their long-term rebuild.