The NY Islanders should stay clear of potential trade target Kiefer Sherwood

We’re nearing the midway mark of the 2025-26 season, and the trade deadline is just over two months away.

Heading into the season, with expectations low, the belief was that the NY Islanders could be one of the more active teams, perhaps looking to move JG Pageau and Anders Lee, who are both on expiring contracts. 

The Islanders should pass on Sherwood

Exceeding expectations through 36 games, the Islanders are firmly in contention for a postseason appearance despite losing Alexander Romanov and Kyle Palmieri for the season. They could now potentially be buyers come March 6.

One name likely to be moved who could fit into this Islanders lineup is Kiefer Sherwood of the Vancouver Canucks.

Sherwood, 30, is on an expiring contract, carrying just a $1.5M cap hit. Only three goals off his career high, Sherwood has recorded 16 goals this season, including a hat-trick against the Isles on Friday night, while sitting second in the NHL in hits with 153. 

This weekend, Stefen Rosner of The Hockey News confirmed the Isles have inquired about Sherwood from the Canucks.

Despite Sherwood likely being a good fit for the Islanders, capable of playing up and down the lineup, Mathieu Darche would be wise to sit this one out.

As we’ve seen from two trades earlier this week, as Mason Marchment was moved from the Seattle Kraken to the Columbus Blue Jackets for a second and fourth round pick, and Phillip Danault commanded a second round pick after being sent from the LA Kings to the Montreal Canadiens, prices are high, and will only get higher.

Darche has made considerable progress in rebuilding the prospect pool in just a few months, and it should remain one of his top priorities. There’s no need to move future assets for a 30-year-old player who will hit free agency this summer.

Rentals aren’t the play this season, and that’s perhaps all Sherwood would be. Stay clear and keep on building this team as they have been.