With the NHL free agency period officially open as of today, July 1, 2025, the New York Islanders find themselves in a crucial position to bolster their roster and solidify their chances of contending for the Stanley Cup in the upcoming 2025-26 season. General Manager Mathieu Darche faces the challenge of addressing key needs within the team while navigating a salary cap of approximately $21 million, a figure that needs to accommodate the re-signing of restricted free agents. While the Islanders have secured the coveted first-overall pick in the 2025 NHL Draft, supplementing this addition with strategic free-agent acquisitions is vital. Here are three players the Islanders should target:

1. Brock Boeser (RW)

Brock Boeser is a right-winger who could provide an immediate offensive boost to the Islanders. Boeser is a natural goal scorer with a dangerous shot, making him a threat on the power play and at even strength. He previously had a 40-goal season in 2023-24. Reuniting Boeser with Bo Horvat, his former teammate from Vancouver, could reignite their chemistry and spark the Islanders' offense. The winger can look at the roster and view the team as up-and-coming, especially after the Matthew Schaefer selection, and want to be a key part of the transition. Boeser can be a staple for an Islanders team that is getting young but also more competitive. The veteran winger can also be a great player to have around as the prospects start making their marks at the NHL level.

2. Nikolaj Ehlers (LW)

Nikolaj Ehlers is a dynamic playmaker with a knack for scoring goals. While his history of injuries may raise concerns, his offensive capabilities make him an attractive target for the Islanders. Ehlers has spent his entire 10-year career with the Jets since being selected with the No. 9 pick in the 2014 NHL Draft. Ehlers has been a constant source of offensive production when he's on the ice. He has missed significant time due to injury in recent years, but he still will likely be near the top of many teams' wish lists this summer. Ehlers may not be a top line winger at this point in his career, but is a tremendous fit on a team's second line. He could slot into the top-line role and turn their offense into one of the better ones in the NHL. Ehlers will create scoring chances for Horvat and find open looks on Barzal's passes.

3. Claude Giroux (C/RW)

Claude Giroux presents an intriguing option for the Islanders. Despite his age (37), Giroux remains a productive and durable player. He scored 15 goals and added 35 assists in 81 games this past season for the Ottawa Senators. The former Philadelphia Flyers captain could provide leadership and depth to the Islanders' lineup, particularly given their injury issues in recent seasons. As such, the Islanders could land a solid, productive leader for about $4 million.

These three players represent potential targets for the Islanders in free agency. The team also needs to re-sign key RFAs like Alexander Romanov and Noah Dobson. Other potential free agents include Mitch Marner, Brad Marchand, Vladislav Gavrikov and Ivan Provorov. By strategically utilizing their cap space and addressing their needs, the Islanders can improve their chances of success in the 2025-26 season.