Darche Is Executing An Opportunistic Retool

Following the conclusion of the 2025 NHL Draft, I had the chance to speak with New York Islanders general manager Mathieu Darche about his picks and more.

A recent New York Islanders argument came back to the forefront this weekend after general manager Mathieu Darche traded 25-year-old defenseman Noah Dobson for draft picks before making nine selections in the 2025 NHL Draft.

Immediately, the word rebuild was being thrown all over the place, and even though Darche said the club was not going that route, many just looked at the trade, the draft, and the roster — and disagreed with the first-time GM’s words.

However, Darche is executing an opportunistic retool.