A refined NHL defense breakout model now targets blueliners likely to deliver true fantasy impact beyond sporadic scoring, focusing on age, experience, and a first sustained FPPG above a historical median. It flags defenders entering a true breakout window (roughly 23–27 years old, 170–380 games) who can push into top unit minutes and PP time, while accumulating hits and blocks that translate to fantasy points.

Among the names highlighted: Bowen Byram, Jamie Drysdale, Dylan Samberg, and K’Andre Miller, plus others who could unlock a real late-round upside if opportunity aligns. The framework aims to separate true contributors from depth players, guiding drafts with data-backed confidence.

Rasmus Andersson dispels rumors of signing with a single team, stressing he won’t handcuff his camp and that last season’s struggles make a quick extension unlikely. Calgary rewarded Dustin Wolf with a long-term deal, signaling confidence in the Flames’ goaltending pipeline. The piece connects Kyle Palmieri as a strong comparator for Anders Lee, then maps a wave of Islanders-UFA drama (Pageau, Shabanov, Gatcomb, Rittich) with Leafs and Penguins chatter shaping the market.

The New York Islanders have secured forward Kyle Palmieri with a two-year contract extension. Last season, Palmieri showcased his skills by netting 24 goals and providing 24 assists over a full 82-game season. Since joining the Islanders from New Jersey in April 2021, he has accumulated 87 goals and 85 assists in 305 games. His overall career stats include 270 goals and 257 assists across 900 games with the Anaheim Ducks, New Jersey Devils, and the Islanders, alongside 18 goals in playoff appearances.

Additionally, defenseman Adam Boqvist has been re-signed for one more year. Boqvist contributed two goals and six assists in 17 games for the Islanders last season, and his overall stats show 27 goals and 72 assists in 244 career games with teams including the Chicago Blackhawks and Columbus Blue Jackets.

The New York Islanders have made significant moves in the off-season, re-signing key players Kyle Palmieri and Adam Boqvist. Palmieri, a veteran forward known for his net-front presence, has signed a two-year deal with a $4.75M cap hit per season, including a full no-trade clause for the first year. Meanwhile, defenseman Adam Boqvist received a one-year extension valued at $0.85M, solidifying the team's depth on the blue line. Additionally, the Seattle Kraken secured Josh Mahura with a two-year contract worth $907,500, further enhancing their defensive lineup. The Philadelphia Flyers also added to their roster by retaining forward Tyson Foerster on a two-year deal worth $3.75M per season, ensuring they have a promising two-way winger in their ranks.

Kyle Palmieri has solidified his future with the New York Islanders, signing a two-year contract. The 34-year-old forward played a pivotal role last season, contributing 48 points (24 goals, 24 assists) in 82 games, placing him third on the team in scoring. Originally drafted by the Anaheim Ducks, Palmieri has amassed 527 points over his NHL career, showcasing his ability to perform in high-pressure situations, including the playoffs.

Additional roster moves include defenseman Adam Boqvist, who signed a one-year contract after a productive stint with the Islanders. Boqvist, a former 2018 first-round pick, posted 14 points in 35 games last season. These signings mark the first moves under general manager Mathieu Darche, signaling a proactive approach as the Islanders look to improve after falling short of playoff contention last season.