Mock Draft 1.0 Who the NY Islanders Should Pick in the First 2 Rounds of the 2024 NHL Entry Draft

1A. Tij Iginla, C, Kelowna Rockets, WHL

If the name sounds familiar that's because Tij is the son of Hall of Famer Jarome Iginla. There's a strong possibility Tij is selected in the top 15, but in this instance he drops to the Islanders at No. 18. Part of the WHL champion Seattle Thunderbirds last season, Iginla didn't see much ice time and was traded to Kelowna in the off-season. Finishing the season with 84 points (47 G, 37 A), Iginla was second on the team in scoring behind 2023 Washington Capitals draft pick, Andrew Cristall. Iginla is a threat every time he touches the puck. He's not the best skaterin the draft but has enough to get past defenders once he gets going. If that doesn't work he relys on his stick handling skills. His shot is his best asset, capable of beating goaltenders from all over the ice. If he's available at No. 18, the Islanders should waste no time making their way to the podium.

1B. Michael Hage, C, Chicago Steel, USHL

While Iginla might not fall to the Islanders at No. 18, selecting Michael Hage may be reaching just a bit. It's only a reach due to the amount he's played over the last two seasons, not necessarily his play. In his draft-1 season, Hage played only 13 games due to a torn labrum. This year he was back with a vengeance, finishing fourth in the USHL in points with 75 (33 G, 42 A). Standing at 6'1" and 190 lbs, Hage is committed to the University of Michigan next season. His game has a bit of everything, but his best assets are his puck handling and shot. He doesn't have the hardest shot but is capable of picking corners. Hage has a big range that he could be selected in, anywhere from 15-25. He may go earlier than No. 18, but there's a better chance Hage is available here over Iginla.