3 New York Islanders free agent targets to reach next level in 2025-26

The New York Islanders are in the midst of one of the most significant offseasons in franchise history. The team’s stunning NHL Draft Lottery win is just one of the reasons why this summer could define the franchise for a generation.

In addition to striking gold in the NHL Draft, the Islanders also face the need to address issues throughout the team. While re-signing key RFAs like Alexander Romanov and Noah Dobson should be atop GM Mathieu Darche’s to-do list, adding depth scoring and rounding out the bottom six are also pressing issues.

With that in mind, here’s a look at three free-agent targets the New York Islanders should keep an eye on in hopes of reaching the next level in 2025-26.

3 New York Islanders free agent targets to reach next level this upcoming season

Claude Giroux

Claude Giroux is an interesting option for the New York Islanders this offseason. Yes, he’s 37 and most likely heading into the final call of his career. But you wouldn’t know he’s on the older side by looking at his performance on the ice.

Giroux scored 15 goals and added 35 assists in 81 games this past season for the Ottawa Senators. He’s still durable and is a solid leader on and off the ice.

The former Philadelphia Flyers’ captain is coming off a somewhat onerous deal, a three-year contract worth $19.5 million. While he might get another three-year deal, it won’t be for that cap hit.

As such, the Islanders could land a solid, productive leader for about $4 million. Considering all of the depth and injury issues plaguing the Isles the last couple of seasons, having a durable player like Claude Giroux could be a solid addition.