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New York Islanders' top 3 prospects to watch out for in 2024/25 season
The New York Islanders enter the 2024-25 season with one of the league’s most depleted prospect pools. In part, it’s the result of trading away draft picks in order to reach back-to-back conference finals in 2020 and 2021.
However, those appearances are in the past. The focus now turns toward maintaining a competitive roster as the club moves into a new phase with coach Patrick Roy behind the bench.
As such, New York Islanders fans should keep an eye on the following prospects as they could make an impact as soon as this upcoming season.
New York Islanders' top 3 prospects to watch out for in 2024/25 season
#3: William Dufour
Dufour was a fifth-round pick by the New York Islanders in 2020. Despite being a relatively late-round pick, Dufour managed to prove he’s much better than his draft position. After dominating the QMJHL, Dufour transitioned to the AHL, showing promise.
In 2022-23, Dufour registered 21 goals and 48 points in 69 games with the Bridgeport Islanders. Last season, Dufour’s numbers slipped to 25 points in 55 games.
Still, Dufour should get a look at training camp this fall. Isles fans should expect Dufour to get a good look at some point this season, especially if injuries pile up.
#2: Justin Gill
The 21-year-old Gill was another late-round pick for the New York Islanders. The fifth-round selection from the 2023 NHL Draft dominated the QMJHL with 98 points in 65 games last season.
So, the big question becomes, how will Gill transition to the AHL? He’s expected to suit up for the Bridgeport Islanders the season. While an NHL call-up may be unlikely this upcoming season, the Isles cannot turn away from his power forward potential.
If Gill has a strong season in the AHL or if injuries become an issue, there could be a chance that the big club may want to see what he can do in the NHL at some point.
#1: Alex Jefferies
Jefferies was a fourth-round pick in the 2020 draft by the Isles. He’s proof that the Isles have been successful in identifying later-round prospects given the team’s lack of first and second-round picks.
After a strong season in the NCAA, Jefferies earned a brief stint with the Bridgeport Islanders, scoring four goals in seven games.
At 22, Jefferies could be close to making his NHL debut. He should get an invite to training camp this fall. If things go well, he should be at the top of the list to earn a call-up this upcoming season. If injuries or inconsistency become an issue, the Isles may want to shake things up by calling up Jefferies.
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