Contract Extensions not a Priority for the New York Islanders at this Point

The New York Islanders are not focused on extending players at this point in time. A piece in The Hockey News discussed this issue, quoting Isles’ GM Lou Lamoriello:

“That is not the focus right now.”

Lamoriello’s words underscored that the club isn’t actively trying to extend veterans Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri.

Lamoriello added:

“That’s not in any disrespect to them or anything. I think the focus right now is getting this team into the best situation we can.”

Lamoriello is right in a sense. There’s a more pressing need insofar as getting the team on track during Patrick Roy’s first full training camp. Additionally, areas like the power play and penalty kill must be addressed more thoroughly.

Now, an interesting comment by Lamoriello highlighted that the lack of extension negotiations “applies to everybody.” This comment specifically referred to pending RFAs Alexander Romanov and Noah Dobson.

Dobson, in particular, should be a priority for the New York Islanders between now and July 1st, 2025. Bear in mind that the St. Louis Blues set a dangerous precedent with the multiple offer sheets this summer. As such, Dobson could be a target for one, especially for a team with the cap space and picks to do it.

If this offer sheet ordeal has taught GMs anything, it’s to get key RFAs under contract before the offseason.

Would the New York Islanders Be Looking to Move Nelson or Palmieri?

The answer to this question hinges on where the New York Islanders are in the standings. If the Isles are in the thick of the playoff race, and I think they will, Nelson and Palmieri stay. The team will need them unless the Isles can come up with a mega deal that could somehow improve upon the team.

Things could radically change if the Islanders are well out of the playoff picture by the 4 Nations break. Moreover, if the Isles are hovering near the bottom of the Eastern Conference standings, or even challenging for a lottery pick, there’s a very good chance both players get moved.

What the return would like for either one remains to be seen. If they have strong years despite poor team performance, the return could come in terms of mid-tier prospects or mid-level draft picks.

For instance, Nelson could fetch a second-round pick and a promising young player. Palmieri could bring in a couple of mid-round picks, allowing the Isles to get something out of letting both players go.

If Lamoriello decides to part with either Nelson or Palmieri or both, it could signal the Islanders are in for a significant makeover in 2025-26.

In the meantime, the hope is that the New York Islanders play well enough this upcoming season to make this entire conversation moot.