As the NHL trade deadline approaches this Friday at 3 pm, the New York Islanders, led by Mathieu Darche, are seeking to strengthen their roster for a playoff surge. Focused on bolstering their top-six forward lineup, the Islanders are expected to be active buyers in the trade market but face roster constraints that complicate potential acquisitions.
Roster Limitations and Duclair’s Possible Departure
With the team currently carrying the maximum of 23 active players, New York must clear a roster spot to accommodate new additions. One player likely to be involved in such movement is Anthony Duclair, whose role with the team has diminished despite scoring well in January.
Duclair’s Contract and Trade Restrictions
Duclair signed a four-year contract with the Islanders starting in summer 2024, which includes a full no-trade clause for the first two seasons and a reduced 16-team no-trade list for the last two years. Recently, he has spent more time off the ice as head coach Patrick Roy has opted to keep him in the press box, indicating a decline in his favor within the lineup.
Insider Insights on Duclair’s Trade Prospects
David Pagnotta, NHL Insider for The Fourth Period, revealed that the Islanders had attempted to move Duclair earlier this season. Speaking on NHL Network Radio’s The Hot Stove, Pagnotta said,
“They’ve been trying to move Anthony Duclair,”
and added,
“He has a full no-trade this season. I believe they asked him earlier in this season to waive it – he declined. I don’t think they’ve really explored that since, or at least they haven’t gone to him since. But Anthony Duclair’s name has been out there this season… but don’t be surprised if he ends up getting flipped at some point.”
– David Pagnotta, NHL Insider
Potential Timing and Control in a Trade
Duclair’s full no-trade protection expires on July 1, at which point he must submit a reduced 16-team no-trade list if a trade is to take place. This timeline means the Islanders may have greater leverage to make a trade now, before he gains more control over where he can be sent next season. Should Mathieu Darche continue to seek reinforcements, Duclair remains a strong candidate to be part of a trade package.
Implications for the Islanders’ Playoff Push
The Islanders’ push toward the playoffs depends heavily on shoring up their forward depth, and any transaction involving Duclair could signal a shift in their approach to the final stretch of the season. Moving Duclair might free up room for new talent, potentially enhancing the team’s upside. The decisions made in the coming days will reveal how aggressively the Islanders plan to pursue their postseason ambitions.
