The 10 best players from each NHL team: New York Islanders

Ilya Sorokin has quickly carved out a reputation as the backbone of the Islanders.  His quick reflexes and calm presence under pressure make him one of the toughest goaltenders to beat in the NHL.

Hiis athleticism is crazy, but his consistency is even better.

Even when the Islanders struggle to generate offense, his ability to track the puck and deliver big saves keeps games within reach. He has become the kind of player that teammates can rely on in the most stressful situations.

For a franchise that values structure and defense, Sorokin has emerged as the perfect fit — a netminder who provides stability, confidence, and the kind of elite performance that can swing the outcome of a season.

Ryan Pulock has been very important on the Islanders’ blue line for years, trusted in every situation because of his steady two-way play. He brings a strong physical presence in his own zone, shutting down opposing forwards with smart positioning and strength along the boards.

Beyond his defensive reliability, Pulock also has a weapon that stands out — one of the hardest shots in the league. That booming slap shot from the point adds another dimension to New York’s offense, making him a threat on the power play.

Pulock isn’t flashy, but he’s the kind of player who quietly does so many things right.

His balance of defensive stability and offensive upside makes him one of the most valuable pieces on the Islanders’ back end.

Alex Romanov signed a significant contract with the Islanders this past summer, a clear signal of how much the organization values him—especially following the trade that sent Noah Dobson out of town. The move instantly elevated Romanov’s importance on the blue line, putting him in a position where the team is counting on him to take another big step forward.

He is clearly known for his physical style and fearlessness in the defensive zone, Romanov has an edge that perfectly fits New York’s identity. But beyond his grit, the Islanders are betting on his continued growth as a reliable top-pair defender who can log heavy minutes.

His new deal shows the trust the team has in him, and with increased responsibility ahead, Romanov is expected to be one of the central figures driving stability and toughness on the Isles’ defense.

his relationship with head coach Patrick Roy. The two didn’t always see eye to eye, which affected his role and consistency in the lineup. For a player who thrives on confidence and rhythm, that type of situation can be difficult to navigate.

Heading into this season, all eyes will be on how Duclair responds. He has the speed and offensive instincts to be a difference-maker when he’s at his best, and the Islanders know that his ability to generate offense could be a valuable asset.

The question now is whether he can put the past behind him, adjust to Roy’s demanding system, and re-establish himself as a reliable scoring threat. How he handles this new chapter could play a big part in shaping both his future and the team’s depth up front.

Jonathan Drouin arrives on Long Island with plenty of intrigue surrounding him. His reputation has followed him throughout his career — a player with undeniable skill and vision, but also someone who has struggled with consistency and outside pressure. For that reason, many are wondering how he’ll fit under Patrick Roy, an intense and demanding coach who doesn’t hesitate to push his players to their limits.

There’s always the chance that Roy’s approach could break Drouin’s confidence if things don’t start well, but there’s also the possibility that this environment becomes exactly what he needs. If he embraces the challenge and finds his rhythm, his creativity could add a unique element to the Islanders’ offense.

This season might be one of the most pivotal of Drouin’s career. The question isn’t just whether he can perform, but whether he can handle the pressure of a coach who will expect nothing less than his best every single night.

Kyle Palmieri may not be in the prime of his career anymore, but even as he gets older, his ability to find the back of the net hasn’t disappeared. He still has that natural scoring touch, and when the puck is on his stick in the right areas, he remains a dangerous threat.

Beyond just his offensive production, Palmieri continues to play a meaningful role for the Islanders. His experience, veteran presence, and knack for delivering in key moments make him an asset both on and off the ice. He understands how to create offense in tight games and how to support his teammates when the pressure is high.

While the younger generation may be stepping up, Palmieri’s importance hasn’t faded. His scoring ability and leadership ensure that he remains a critical contributor to New York’s success.

Jean-Gabriel Pageau has built his reputation as one of the better two-way forwards in the NHL, and even as he begins to slow down a little with age, that hasn’t completely changed.

His defensive instincts, ability to kill penalties, and smart positioning continue to make him a valuable piece of the Islanders’ lineup.

He’s not the same from years ago, but Pageau still brings consistency and reliability in tough matchups. He’s trusted in key defensive situations, while also chipping in offensively when needed.

For a team like the Islanders that values structure and discipline, Pageau remains an important contributor, proving that even with a bit of decline, his two-way game keeps him relevant and impactful.

Anders Lee is the undisputed leader of the New York Islanders, carrying the weight of the captaincy with pride and consistency. As the team’s captain, he sets the tone both on and off the ice, leading by example with his work ethic, physical presence, and determination in the hard areas of the game.

Lee has long been known as a net-front force, using his size and strength to battle defenders and create scoring chances in close. His leadership extends beyond his production, though—he provides stability and direction to a roster that thrives on identity and structure.

For the Islanders, Lee isn’t just another player—he’s their heart and soul, embodying the culture of the team while remaining a crucial offensive presence.

Bo Horvat is a leader for the New York Islanders. He was acquired from Vancouver, bringing both experience and a nice offensive presence to the lineup. The Islanders made a smart move in acquiring him, as Horvat immediately became a core part of the team’s identity.

On the ice, he contributes in all areas, capable of driving play as a strong two-way center while remaining responsible defensively. His ability to score, win faceoffs, and manage key moments makes him a versatile and reliable piece for the Islanders’ top lines.

Beyond stats, Horvat’s leadership is evident in the locker room. He provides guidance to younger players, sets a professional example, and adds a calming yet motivating presence. For Long Island, he has quickly become a cornerstone of the franchise.

Matt Barzal is one of the most dynamic forwards in the NHL, capable of creating offense seemingly out of nowhere with his vision, speed, and creativity on the ice.

Barzal’s skating ability allows him to make quick, unpredictable plays, weaving through defenders and generating scoring chances both for himself and his linemates. His hockey IQ and passing make him a constant threat in transition, while his offensive instincts allow him to find open spaces in tight areas.

Even though he sometimes draws attention from opposing defenders, Barzal consistently adapts and finds ways to impact the game. For the Islanders, he is a key offensive catalyst, providing energy, skill, and excitement every time he steps on the ice.