The New York Islanders are gearing up for the 2026-27 season, and fantasy hockey enthusiasts are buzzing with excitement. This year's team boasts a formidable lineup, with a few standout players who are sure to make waves in the league. Here's a breakdown of the top five Islanders to watch, along with some insightful commentary and analysis.
Ilya Sorokin: The Workhorse Goalie
Ilya Sorokin is a force to be reckoned with in the net. Despite a slightly lower save percentage than previous seasons, he still managed to lead the league in shutouts (7) and ranked among the top 10 in wins (29) and saves (1,386). Sorokin's consistency is remarkable, having played at least 50 games and secured at least 25 wins in each of the past five seasons. He joins an elite group of goalies with over 100 wins, 7,000 saves, and 20 shutouts, alongside Connor Hellebuyck and Igor Shesterkin. Sorokin's performance has earned him a top-five ranking in NHL.com's fantasy goalie projections, and with Peter DeBoer's coaching expertise, the team's potential for improvement is high. This makes Sorokin a reliable and valuable asset for fantasy hockey owners.
Matthew Schaefer: The Unstoppable Defenseman
Matthew Schaefer, just 19 years old, made waves last season by rewriting the record books for production by an 18-year-old defenseman. He became the first unanimous Calder Trophy winner since Teemu Selanne in 1992-93, showcasing his exceptional talent. Schaefer's 23 goals tied for the NHL lead among rookies, a feat that hadn't been achieved by a defenseman in over 90 years. His performance has solidified his place as a top-40 overall fantasy player and a top-five defenseman in standard leagues. With his age and potential, Schaefer is a player to watch, especially in long-term formats where his high ceiling becomes even more apparent.
Bo Horvat: The Goal-Scoring Machine
Bo Horvat, despite playing just 68 games, led the Islanders in goals (31), game-winning goals, and shots on goal. His production is impressive, especially considering his age (31) and the fact that he had 31 points in his first 31 games before injuries impacted his performance. Horvat has consistently scored at least 28 goals in each of the past five seasons, with a career-high of 38 in 2022-23. His goal-scoring prowess and high shot volume make him a potential draft bargain, especially in leagues that value face-off wins. Horvat's ability to contribute in multiple aspects of the game makes him a valuable addition to any fantasy team.
Mathew Barzal: The Playmaking Maestro
Mathew Barzal, known for his playmaking abilities, had a bounce-back season, leading the Islanders in assists (53), points (72), and power-play points (20). His performance in the first power play, where he brings exposure to Schaefer and Horvat, is particularly intriguing. Barzal's ability to create scoring opportunities and contribute to the team's success makes him a key player to watch. With his playmaking skills and potential for growth, Barzal is a solid addition to any fantasy team.
Victor Eklund: The Rising Star
Victor Eklund, selected 15th overall in the 2025 NHL Draft, made a strong impression in his NHL debut with an assist. The 19-year-old's performance in the Swedish Hockey League and the American Hockey League showcases his talent and potential. Eklund's placement within the Islanders' lineup at full strength suggests a bright future, making him a player to watch for fantasy hockey owners. His high ceiling and potential for growth make him an exciting addition to the team.
In addition to these standout players, the Islanders have a few other players to keep an eye on. Brayden Schenn, Calum Ritchie, Emil Heineman, Matias Maccelli, Tony DeAngelo, Kyle Palmieri, Ryan Pulock, and Alexander Romanov all have the potential to make an impact in the league. With a strong core and a few breakout candidates, the New York Islanders are poised for success in the 2026-27 season, offering fantasy hockey enthusiasts a wealth of exciting options to consider.
