5 Bold Predictions for the NY Islanders’ 2025-26 Season

2. The Islanders Finish Top-15 in Power-Play Percentage

The power play has long been a sore spot for the Islanders, too predictable and too easily defused. That changes in 2025-26. Under Roy and new assistant coach Ray Bennett, who joins the team after years of success on special teams with the Colorado Avalanche, the Isles will finish in the top 15 in power-play percentage, and playing with the extra man will no longer be viewed as a negative.

This turnaround starts with movement. The Islanders are ditching their static umbrella and leaning into constant rotation, quick puck exchanges, and east-west passing lanes. Mathew Barzal remains the primary engine, while Bo Horvat provides the net-front presence and Matthew Schaefer controls the blue line with confidence and deception.

The second unit adds different looks. Kyle Palmieri remains a reliable option, and Emil Heineman’s willingness to shoot early gives the team a much-needed sense of urgency: more pucks, more chaos, more second chances. Plus, a full season of Barzal entering the zone can't hurt either.

Beyond goals, this improvement will change the Isles’ game tempo and mindset. A top-half power play doesn’t just score — it builds momentum. Under Roy’s emphasis on pace and Darche’s roster balance, special teams finally become a competitive advantage rather than a liability.