3 burning questions New York Islanders must answer in 2026 offseason

The New York Islanders (43-34-5) were a frisky team the entire season with the emergence of 2025 No. 1 pick Matthew Schaefer and a Vezina-caliber season from goaltender Ilya Sorokin. They were in a playoff spot heading into March, with a 34-21-5 record, placing them as one of the best three teams in the Metropolitan Division.

More: Maple Leafs look to Mats Sundin to bring back ‘pride’ in Toronto, per Friedman As a result, the Islanders made an ill-advised trade with the St. Louis Blues for center Brayden Schenn. They gave up a package that included a first-round pick from the Colorado Avalanche to acquire Schenn, and while he regained some of his offensive game, the Islanders slumped after the trade.

From March onward, they went 9-13-0, missing the playoffs. The Islanders moved on from head coach Patrick Roy for accomplished head coach Peter DeBoer, showing they could build their roster to compete for the 2026-27 Stanley Cup Playoffs in the offseason. What do the Islanders re-sign Anders Lee to?

Mar 17, 2026; Toronto, Ontario, CAN; New York Islanders left wing Anders Lee (27) skates during the warmup before a game against the Toronto Maple Leafs at Scotiabank Arena. Mandatory Credit: Nick Turchiaro-Imagn Images The Islanders have a major financial decision to make with their 35-year-old captain. Lee has been through thick and thin in an Islanders uniform, approaching game no.