The 2024 NHL Entry Draft is around the corner. The New York Islanders enter this draft in particular at a crossroads. They must replenish a depleted farm system and can do that with a strong class as they can land a few NHL-caliber prospects to turn around the team in the long run. Then there’s the ability to make a middling roster instantly competitive with a trade on draft day that allows the Islanders to add a player ready to contribute.
Related: Islanders’ Top Free Agent Target Must Be Jake Guentzel
The latter option is more interesting for general manager (GM) Lou Lamoriello. After all, that’s how he approached the 2022 Draft, moving the 13th overall selection to acquire Alexander Romanov. There are a lot of moves on the table and plenty of trades have already been made by both the Islanders and teams around the league involving draft selections.
It wouldn’t come as a surprise if the Islanders go out and acquire a player who can impact the roster immediately. Elite players like Mitch Marner might not be available but there are other top-six players worth keeping an eye on.
Nikolaj Ehlers
Nikolaj Ehlers is the player the Islanders would ideally acquire during the first round of the draft. With a first-round selection, two second-round picks, and a handful of prospects at the forward position, they have the assets to convince the Winnipeg Jets to trade him.
Ehlers is the winger the Islanders would love to add to their top line. His injury history is a concern but his ceiling takes the offense to another level. Ehlers has a great shot and can open up the offense as well, making him an ideal player to play alongside Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal.
Among the players that will be available during the draft, Ehlers is the one who will come at a cost. The Islanders will have to give up at least their first-round selection and possibly two draft picks to get him. Ironically, he’s not the only player in the Jets system who might be available.
Rutger McGroarty
My colleague Michael Ostrower outlined why the Islanders should acquire Rutger McGroarty, a prospect many draft experts knew well but casual fans are only starting to find out about following the latest news that he wants a fresh start elsewhere. While a prospect, he’s ahead of the curve as he’s been developing in the NCAA for the past two seasons. It makes him more valuable than a typical prospect and teams will look to add him just…
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