Kyle Palmieri is the NY Islanders nominee for the Masterson Trophy, and isn't ruling out a comeback this season

The 2025-26 season did not go the way Kyle Palmieri had hoped after signing a two-year extension in May. Suffering a torn ACL on November 28, against the Philadelphia Flyers, Palmieri's final moment on the ice this season was one that will last a long time in the minds of NY Isladers' fans, stripping the puck while hobbling to the bench, earning a primary assist on an Emil Heineman goal.

Despite playing in only 25 games this season, Palmieri has been nominated for the Masterson Trophy by the Pro Hockey Writers Association. The award is given to the player who best exemplifies the qualities of perseverance, sportsmanship, and dedication to ice hockey.

Palmieri nominated for Masterson Trophy

Since the inception of the franchise in 1972, three Islanders have won the Masterson Trophy: Ed Westfall (1977), Mark Fitzpatrick (1992), and Robin Lehner (2019).

While Palmieri is honored to be the Islanders' nominee, he didn't hesitate to praise a teammate who he believes deserves consideration.

“Seeing the guys that have won [the Masterton], who have been up for it, it’s an honor to be mentioned in that same category,” Palimieri said accorind to Ethan Sears of The NY Post. “I think looking across the room at a certain goaltender being on the day-to-day, watching Varly make his way back and the dedication that it takes to rehab as long as he has. Even though I miss him and now I’m skating on my own, it’s so cool to see him back and skating with the team, taking live shots, cause of how much I’ve seen him and the work he’s put in."

Though he was originally ruled out for the remainder of the season, Palmieri isn't ruling out a return if the Islanders can make a run in the playoffs.

“Getting back on the ice was a big step a couple weeks ago,” he said. “As long as I keep progressing, I’m definitely not putting it out of my mind. It’s just about working hard and finding ways to make sure each day is better than the next. Wherever the chips fall, they fall.”