The New York Islanders are embarking on a new era, one that hinges on the success of a revamped, youthful defense. For years, the Islanders were defined by their defensive solidity, a system built around veterans like Adam Pelech and Ryan Pulock. However, with age and injuries impacting the performance of these mainstays, General Manager Mathieu Darche is betting on an infusion of young talent to revitalize the team's blue line.
The cornerstone of this strategy is Matthew Schaefer, the first overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft. Described as an elite skater with excellent puck-handling skills and defensive awareness, Schaefer is projected to become a franchise defenseman for the Islanders. While his offensive upside is significant, his immediate role will likely focus on his defensive capabilities and smooth transition game. Darche has stated that Schaefer will need to earn his place during training camp, but projections place him on the third defensive pairing to start the season, with potential for increased responsibility as the year progresses.
Adding to the youth movement on defense is Kashawn Aitcheson, the Islanders' third first-round pick in the 2025 draft. Aitcheson, a physical defenseman with a knack for scoring, brings a different dimension to the team's prospect pool. His 26 goals in the 2024-25 season ranked third among OHL defensemen, showcasing his offensive capabilities. Beyond his scoring touch, Aitcheson is known for his physicality and defensive reliability.
The Islanders also have high hopes for Isaiah George, a high-IQ, smooth-skating defenseman who made his NHL debut last season. Despite being thrown into the deep end at a young age, George garnered praise from coach Patrick Roy and is expected to compete for a roster spot in the upcoming season.
While the focus is on the incoming prospects, the success of this defensive transition also relies on the continued development of Calle Odelius and Jesse Pulkkinen. Odelius, a 2022 second-round pick, faced challenges in his first North American season but is expected to play a significant role in Bridgeport. Pulkkinen, a towering defenseman with first-round talent, is considered a high-upside project.
The decision to pivot to a younger defense is not without risk. Young defensemen often struggle with the physical demands and complexities of the NHL game. The Islanders will need to exercise patience and provide a supportive environment for these prospects to develop. Coach Roy has expressed confidence in his defense corps, noting the additions of Tony DeAngelo and Adam Boqvist to help fill the offensive void left by Noah Dobson.
The Islanders' success hinges on their ability to integrate these young players effectively. If Schaefer, Aitcheson, George, and others can live up to their potential, the Islanders could once again boast a formidable defense and compete for a playoff spot. However, if the transition proves too challenging, the Islanders may face another season of defensive struggles. Only time will tell if this gamble pays off, but the Islanders have clearly signaled their intention to build a new defensive foundation for the future.
