What A Difference An Islander Year Makes
A look at how the Islanders’ roster, results, and identity have changed as they enter 2026 in playoff position.
Oh, what a difference a year makes.
Last season, the Islanders played 38 games before the calendar flipped to 2025, posting a 14-17-7 record for 35 points. They sat seventh in the Metropolitan Division and 13th in the Eastern Conference.
This season, the Islanders have played 40 games before the New Year, going 22-14-4 for 48 points.
The names aren’t radically different — but the impact, pace, and identity absolutely are. Here’s what’s driving it.