Islanders Notebook: NHL Draft Thoughts, Trade Buzz, Free Agency & Rookie Camp Notes

The latest Islanders notebook featuring NHL Draft buzz, trade rumors, free agency updates, and prospect notes.

BUFFALO, NY — As you are reading this, I am either somewhere above the Northeast or have already landed in Buffalo ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft, which gets underway on Friday at 7 p.m. ET.

The New York Islanders enter draft week holding the 13th overall pick and, despite plenty of league-wide movement over the last few days, have yet to be involved in any of the major trades.

With the draft now just around the corner and the offseason rumor mill in full swing, here are some thoughts on the Islanders, the trade market, free agency, and what could be ahead for Mathieu Darche and company.