Glad they have the top pick, however they cannot select a defenseman with that pick. Islanders need a forward superstar that can put fear in opposing team when he’s on the ice. Sign a FA defenseman if they need to but the power play is abysmal because they can’t score. With a better scorer on power play they make playoffs or win more games and not have to worry about wildcard spot.
If they want offense, then Misa is the pick or Schaefer for defense. Don't take the LI prospect Hagens at #1. He is good but Misa and Schaefer are the two best prospects according to the "experts". They could trade with Chicago or San Jose at #2 or #3 and draft Hagens but they better get their #1 pick in next year's draft giving them two first Rd picks in 2026.
I hope they select Misa he’s a scoring machine, his skating and puck handling are on another level. He’s exactly what they need, he can center the second line and they can leave barzal as top line center.
Absent of San Jose absolutely wanting him and trading up a slot for him, I think Schaefer has to be the pick. We have Ritchie and Eiserman who should be impact players within 3 years but zero meaningful defensive prospects. Schaefer is an elite defensive prospect. Plus we have two 1st round picks next year in what is considered a deep forward draft. that being said, trading down with San Jose and still landing Misa wouldn’t upset me.
If they do trade with SJ, then the Isles should demand their 1st RD pick in next year's draft giving them 3 picks in RD 1. I would be happy with Schaefer or Misa if they pick at #1.
