NY Islanders’ Brayden Schenn optimistic about Long Island future despite bad ending

When Brayden Schenn arrived on Long Island, it was supposed to be the start of a playoff run. Instead, it ended in disappointment. But even after a late-season collapse that saw the New York Islanders fall short of the postseason, Schenn made it clear during clean-out day that his belief in the organization — and his future in it — hasn’t wavered.

“It’s obviously a whirlwind when you get traded and join a team,” Schenn said. “Coming here, you expect to be here a lot longer than just a month… that’s the frustrating part.” Despite the abrupt ending, Schenn emphasized how much he enjoyed his time with the Islanders. “It’s an unbelievable place to play. Great organization, great guys… it’s everything you thought of and more,” he said.

That perspective matters for a veteran who has seen it all. Schenn didn’t just come in as a rental — he’s already thinking about putting down roots. “I’m looking forward to getting fully settled here with the family… into next year,” he said. The disappointment of missing the playoffs hasn’t faded, but Schenn believes it can serve as fuel moving forward.

“If you’re not pissed off with the result… if that doesn’t motivate you to be better next year, I think we all have to look at ourselves,” he said. On the ice, Schenn quickly developed chemistry with Mathew Barzal, something he hopes to build on with a full season. “Loved it… he’s a special player in this league,” Schenn said.

He also pointed to areas that must improve, particularly on the power play, where he felt inconsistency cost the team in critical moments. “We didn’t do a good enough job moving the puck quick enough… it hurt us down the stretch,” he said. For Schenn, the message is clear: the ending wasn’t acceptable — but it’s not the end of the story. After making the most of a short stint, he’s ready for more — and believes better days are ahead on Long Island.

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