NHL News: NY Islanders send clear draft message as No. 1 pick decision locked in

The New York Islanders have made their intentions for the 2025 NHL Draft unmistakably clear. Less than a week before the first round kicks off in Los Angeles, the franchise has settled on a bold course of action: they’re keeping the top overall pick.

Since winning the draft lottery on May 5, speculation had swirled around whether the team might consider trading the No. 1 selection. But general manager Mathieu Darche, who recently took over from Lou Lamoriello, is signaling stability and intent as he guides the organization into a new era.

“I’m not trading the one, but you look at everything, right?“ Darche said, according to NHL.com, during his pre-draft availability Tuesday. “Teams are calling you about various options… Every single day, I’m trying to improve the New York Islanders.”

Islanders: Focus shifts to top candidates

While Darche confirmed the pick will stay in New York, he kept the team’s shortlist of players under wraps. Matthew Schaefer, a highly regarded defenseman from the Erie Otters, remains the top-ranked North American skater and a potential fit. Despite a fractured clavicle that limited his 2024–25 campaign, Schaefer has continued to impress scouts with his leadership and resilience.

Top prospect Matthew Schaefer attends the game between the Florida Panthers and the Edmonton Oilers in Game Three of the 2025 Stanley Cup Final at Amerant Bank Arena on June 09, 2025 in Sunrise, Florida. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

The Islanders have also done extensive background work on other elite prospects, including James Hagens, a center from Boston College with local roots. Born in Hauppauge, New York, Hagens grew up as an Islanders fan, adding emotional weight to the possibility of him joining the club.

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Darche hinted that the final choice is likely already clear internally, though nothing will be announced until Friday. “There’s a few guys we like, and I do have an idea at this point, because it’s in four days,“ he said. “But we’re going to keep doing our due diligence all the way through Friday.”

Exploring additional first-round opportunities

Though the No. 1 pick is locked, the Islanders may not be done making moves. Darche acknowledged the possibility of acquiring another first-round selection if the right deal comes together. Whether it means moving up, trading down, or using assets to acquire a proven NHL player, all options are on the table.

“If I feel the opportunity warrants that trade, I’ll try it,“ Darche said. “Whether it’s acquiring another pick, or trading a pick to get a player, I’m looking at all options to improve our team.”

With the draft just days away and New York holding the most coveted position, all eyes will be on the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles this Friday when the 2025 NHL Draft begins at 7 p.m. ET.