Isaiah George enters NY Islanders camp with confidence and experience

As Isaiah George enters his third New York Islanders development camp, the 21-year-old defenseman is feeling more at home than ever. Familiar with the coaching staff, teammates, and surroundings at Northwell Health Ice Center, George is using the week to sharpen his skills and make a strong impression on the organization’s new leadership.

After logging over 30 NHL games last season, George is now one of the more experienced players in the room. While he remains humble, he acknowledges that younger prospects are naturally turning to him with questions about the NHL experience. “If they’ve got questions, I’ll answer them,” George said after Day 2 of camp, adding that he has nothing but positive things to say about his time with the big club last year.

George also spoke highly of Islanders blueliner Alexander Romanov, who recently signed a long-term extension. “He’s one of the most intense guys out there. He’s hard on every puck and gives 110% every shift,” George said. He hopes to emulate that same fire in his own game.

George is familiar with Calum Ritchie as the two played lacrosse together "a long time ago" when they were 9 or 10. Meanwhile, this summer, he had training sessions with top prospects like Matthew Schaefer to keep him focused. “He’s super humble and really skilled,” George said of Schaefer, adding that he’s excited about the overall talent at this year’s camp.

Looking ahead, George’s goals are clear: work hard, improve his skill set, and make a strong impression on the new coaching staff. “It’s a new opportunity,” he said, noting a “fresh air” feeling around the organization. He’s already begun connecting with the new staff, appreciating their detailed feedback and focus on development.

With a blend of maturity, experience, and hunger to grow, Isaiah George is positioning himself as a key piece in the Islanders’ defensive pipeline heading into the 2025–26 season.