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New York Islanders Roundtable: 2018 NHL Entry Draft Possibilities

PITTSBURGH, PA - JUNE 22: Griffin Reinhart (C), fourth overall pick by the New York Islanders, poses on stage with Islanders representatives during Round One of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft at Consol Energy Center on June 22, 2012 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
PITTSBURGH, PA - JUNE 22: Griffin Reinhart (C), fourth overall pick by the New York Islanders, poses on stage with Islanders representatives during Round One of the 2012 NHL Entry Draft at Consol Energy Center on June 22, 2012 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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NEWARK, NJ – FEBRUARY 09: Lou Lamoriello addresses the fans during the former New Jersey Devils goaltender Martin Brodeur jersey retirement ceremony before the game between the New Jersey Devils and the Edmonton Oilers on 9, 2016 at Prudential Center in Newark, New Jersey. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images) /

Frank Molinari

I believe the Islanders should trade a pick and keep one. That’s likely what Lou Lamoriello will do based on the Islanders’ needs. The Islanders are in desperate need of a defender and a goalie.

With Lou at the helm, it’s likely he will make a move. I could easily see him draft a defenseman and trade for a goalie. It is ideal for the Islanders to get a young defenseman and trade for an established goaltender.

Two players, I am looking at specifically are Quintin Hughes from the University of Michigan and Philipp Grubauer from the Washington Capitals. It would be a dream for the Islanders to snatch Hughes in the eleventh pick. At Michigan, Hughes had five goals and 24 assists for 29 points in just 37 games in Michigan.

Hughes, along with any other defenseman in this draft, is being largely overlooked because of Rasmus Dahlin. The Islanders should be sure not to overlook him, as long as he isn’t picked before the Islanders get a chance. Hughes is good in both ends of the ice, he’s perfect for the Islanders.

The other player who the Islanders would like to acquire the services of is Philipp Grubauer. The Islanders and Hurricanes have been showing interest in him. Grubauer had his best season by far this past year, displaying some strong play during the regular season.

He even took over Braden Holtby’s job in the first two playoff games for the Capitals. After a Stanley Cup win, Grubauer is a pending restricted free agent and is likely out the door. I could easily see Lou Lamoriello incorporating the 12th pick in a deal to trade for Grubauer.

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