There are 2 notable names among the invited players at NY Islanders Development Camp

When the NY Islanders won the 2025 NHL Draft Lottery, the big debate was whether Mathieu Darche would select Matthew Schaefer or the local kid, James Hagens. Ultimately, selecting Schaefer, who had one of the greatest seasons ever for a rookie blueliner, was the right choice, but the intrigue around Hagens still lives despite being taken by the Boston Bruins with the seventh overall pick.

Darche attempted to trade up multiple times to take Hagens, but was unsuccessful. With Development Camp getting underway today, the Islanders will, in fact, have a Hagens attending, as James’ older brother, Michael, is an invitee.

Michael Hagens and Henry Nelson are attending Development Camp

Unlike James, who is a dynamic center, Michael is a 5’11” defenseman who also played collegiately at Boston College. Last season, he failed to register a goal but recorded five assists in 33 games for the Golden Eagles.

Hagens has decided to transfer to the University of Vermont for the 2026-27 season, where he’ll have two years of eligibility remaining.

Hagens isn’t the only notable name among the invitees for development camp, as Henry Nelson, brother of 2023 second-round pick Danny Nelson, is also in attendance.

Like Danny, Henry attends Notre Dame, patrolling the blue line as a left-shot defenseman. In 37 games last season, Henry recorded three goals, adding 10 assists. He’s entering his final season of NCAA eligibility, where Henry and Danny will be joined by their younger brother Sammy, who is one of the top prospects for the 2027 NHL Draft.

Danny elected not to sign his ELC this summer, as playing with both of his brothers was a deciding factor in his return to Notre Dame for another year.

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