4 players the NY Islanders could round out the defensive core with

The NHL has devolved over the years when it comes to defensemen, with offensive production from the blue line becoming more and more crucial. Matthew Schaefer has brought an element of offense to the NY Islanders that they’ve been missing for some time, but more is needed outside of the 18-year-old. So, where could Mathieu Darche turn in his second season in charge to add some flair to the Islanders' back end?

Tony DeAngelo

After signing a one-year deal last summer to remain in Long Island, DeAngelo is once again set to hit free agency on July 1. After a rough start to the season, the NJ native turned things around, recording five goals and 30 assists in 76 games. DeAngelo has expressed interest in returning to the Islanders, and turning 31 at the start of the season, he still has good days ahead of him on a short-term deal.

Simon Nemec

The former second overall pick by the NJ Devils has struggled to earn consistent playing time through three NHL seasons. Darche reportedly explored acquiring the Slovak blue liner last summer. With reports out of Slovakia that Nemec is requesting a trade, Darche may have a second crack at bringing in the 22-year-old. Nemec scored 11 goals and added 15 assists last season. 

Michael Kesserling

Kesserling’s first season with the Buffalo Sabres didn’t go as planned, battling injury throughout the majority of the year. Suffering an injury during training camp, the 6’5” defenseman struggled to get healthy, quickly falling out of favor with head coach Lindy Ruff. Playing in just 34 games this season, Kesserling averaged just 13:24 of ice time, failed to score, added two assists, and played in just one playoff game. Last season, with Utah, he played in all 82 games, scoring seven times and contributing 22 assists. Kesserling is an RFA this summer and could be looking for more consistent playing time at 26 years old.

Brandt Clarke

Perhaps the best option both now and into the future, Brandt Clarke brings exactly what the Islanders are in need of. At 23-years-old, Clarke is coming off his best season with the LA Kings, scoring eight goals and adding 32 assists. During his time in LA, Clarke has struggled to earn a major role, but has been incredibly valuable on the power play. Entering restricted free agency, the Kings are pushed up against the cap ceiling, needing to add a center after Anne Kopitar’s retirement, while massive extensions are kicking in for Artemi Panarin and Adrian Kempe. If there were discussions regarding a trade, it would likely begin with the Islanders first round pick, and Clarke could be the type of player Darche is willing to move that pick for.

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