Islanders Keep Top Pick, Eye More Draft Moves

New York Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche has confirmed the team will not trade away the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, which they secured by winning the lottery with just a 3.5% chance. The Islanders are widely expected to select defenseman Matthew Schaefer, considered the top prospect, but Darche has not revealed a final decision. Local interest is strong in James Hagens, a Long Island native projected as a top-10 pick, fueling speculation that the Islanders might trade for another first-round pick to select both prospects. Darche highlighted the importance of player character and personality during evaluations and remains open to additional moves to improve the roster. The organization sees this draft as a pivotal opportunity to reshape the team’s future and return to contender status without a full rebuild. Both fans and ownership are optimistic that the first overall pick will usher in a new era for the franchise.