Here is a look at the key stories surrounding the New York Islanders right now, along with their schedule for the upcoming week of March 22-29, 2026.
AHL Affiliate Relocating to Canada
The biggest off-ice news is the Islanders’ official announcement to relocate their American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate from Bridgeport, Connecticut, to Hamilton, Ontario, starting in the 2026-27 season.
After 25 years in Bridgeport, the team will play in Hamilton’s newly renovated TD Coliseum. The move is currently pending final approval from the AHL Board of Governors.
A Nail-Biting Playoff Race
The Islanders are currently fighting for their playoff lives in a crowded Eastern Conference. After suffering back-to-back road losses last week — a last-second heartbreaker to Ottawa and a 7-3 loss to Montreal — New York finds themselves two points behind the Columbus Blue Jackets at 83 points, battling tooth-and-nail for a wild card spot alongside teams like the Boston Bruins and Detroit Red Wings. Sunday’s matchup against Columbus is a massive “four-point” game.
The Historic Rise of Matthew Schaefer
On the ice, 18-year-old rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer is the story of the season. He recently etched his name into the record books as the youngest defenseman in NHL history to reach 50 career points. With 22 goals on the season already, he has become a dynamic offensive weapon and a primary fixture on the team’s blue line and power play.
Locking Down Top Prospects
General manager Lou Lamoriello and the front office have been busy securing the team’s future. The Islanders recently signed two top prospects to three-year, entry-level contracts: highly-touted forward Cole Eiserman and rising star defenseman Kashawn Aitcheson.
Islanders Upcoming Schedule
The Islanders are heading into a crucial four-game homestand at UBS Arena. After a tough road trip, this home stretch will be vital for their postseason hopes.
| Date | Opponent | Time (EDT) | Location |
| Sun, Mar. 22 | vs. Columbus Blue Jackets | 7:00 PM | UBS Arena (Home) |
| Tue, Mar. 24 | vs. Chicago Blackhawks | 7:00 PM | UBS Arena (Home) |
| Thu, Mar. 26 | vs. Dallas Stars | 7:00 PM | UBS Arena (Home) |
| Sat, Mar. 28 | vs. Florida Panthers | 1:00 PM | UBS Arena (Home) |
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