The rumors linked to the NY Islanders a few hours from the trade deadline

We're nearing the trade deadline, and not too much has occurred on deadline day as of now, but with a few hours remaining, that could all change.

The NY Islanders are still in pursuit of a big addition to the forward group, but the prices appear to be tremendous. Mathieu Darche appears hesitant to move either Kashawn Aitcheson or Victor Ekulnd, the 17th and 18th overall picks in the 2025 NHL Draft. The Islanders were very high on both prospects at the time of the draft and still have high expectations for both.

Isles looking to move Duclair and Shabanov

Though it doesn't appear that Darche is willing to part with either plus additional pieces for Robert Thomas or Jordan Kyrou, that doesn't mean they couldn't be moved for the right deal, perhaps for a big name who hasn't been mentioned.

According to David Pgnotta of The Fourth Period, the Isles are trying to move Anthony Duclair and Max Shabanov. Pagnotta reported earlier this week that the Isles looked to move Duclair earlier this season, but was unwilling to waive his no-trade clause.

Shabanov was an exciting addition for the Islanders this summer, as the Russian winger chose Long Island over a handful of other suitors. But so far, the experiment hasn't exactly worked for Shabanov. He hasn't played since January 31, and appears to be on the outside looking in when it comes to dressing alongside Duclair.

As we've seen with the Nic Roy and Jason Dickinson deals, GMs are willing to pay a high price for middle-6 centers, including first-round picks. In the midst of a playoff race, JG Pageau is a valuable piece of this Islanders' core. But there is the chance the Islanders lose him for nothing in the off-season, as he could be one of the top free agents on the market. There's a slim chance he's moved before 3 pm, but Darche's phone has surely been ringing with inquiries.