General Manager Mathieu Darche expressed confidence that the New York Islanders are a playoff-contending team for the upcoming season, citing the anticipated full participation of key players returning from injuries. "I think we’re a playoff-contending team," Darche told reporters on Wednesday.

Several players are expected to be at full strength. Forward Kyle Palmieri, who tore his ACL in late November, is nearing full recovery and was seen assisting in construction efforts for the Islanders Children’s Foundation at a Bellerose YMCA. Defenseman Alexander Romanov, lost for the season due to a shoulder injury in November, has been skating for three weeks and is reportedly 12 pounds lighter and in excellent condition. Forward Pierre Engvall, who missed the entire previous campaign due to ankle surgery and a prior hip procedure, is also expected to be healthy for training camp. Veteran goaltender Semyon Varlamov, sidelined since 2024 with lingering knee issues, is also deemed game-ready and has been practicing regularly without pain, participating in four to five on-ice sessions weekly. Darche hopes Varlamov's return will provide necessary load management for starting goalie Ilya Sorokin.

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Darche also indicated an expectation for progression from players like Cal Ritchie, Emil Heineman, and Simon Holmstrom, who have shown potential in previous seasons. Holmstrom recorded 41 points, while Heineman and Ritchie each had 30-point seasons.

The Islanders are also navigating the departure of longtime captain Anders Lee, who signed with the Mammoth. Darche suggested there is a "strong chance" the team will name a new captain this season, with discussions planned once head coach Pete DeBoer returns. The team also views DeBoer's three-year contract extension, signed with four games remaining in the last season, as a significant acquisition, emphasizing the continuity of his system.

Darche made these remarks while participating in a community event with the Islanders Children’s Foundation, helping construct a playground at a Bellerose YMCA. IMAGE4