Islanders Acquire Veteran Forward Ondrej palat in Trade with devils
New York, NY - January 29, 2026 – In a move aimed at bolstering their playoff push, the New York Islanders have acquired veteran forward Ondrej Palat from the New Jersey Devils in exchange for forward Maxim Tsyplakov, a third-round pick in the 2026 NHL draft, and a sixth-round pick in the 2027 NHL Draft. The trade, announced Tuesday, brings a proven winner and experienced playoff performer to a team currently vying for a postseason berth.
Palat, 34, brings a wealth of experience to Long Island, having registered 10 points (four goals, six assists) in 51 games this season. He has one year remaining on his five-year, $30 million contract, carrying an average annual value of $6 million.while his offensive numbers may not be elite, Palat’s value lies in his two-way play and demonstrated ability to elevate his game during the playoffs.
This acquisition marks a reunion between Palat and Islanders General Manager Mathieu Darche. The two previously worked together with the Tampa Bay Lightning, where Darche served as director of hockey operations during Palat’s two Stanley Cup championships in 2020 and 2021.
“Ondrej Palat, obviously I have a history with him,” Darche stated. “We’re getting a player that played 155 playoff games,and his stats in the playoffs are considerably higher than his regular season production. He’s a winning player who plays the right way and defends well. His experience and pedigree are invaluable as we strive to improve defensively and make a deep playoff run.”
Palat himself expressed enthusiasm about joining the Islanders association. “I’m very happy to be here and be a part of this group,” he said. “I’m familiar with ‘Darchy’ and his approach as a GM. I’m not here to be a 50-goal scorer, but to contribute a strong two-way game and help the team win in any way I can.”
The Islanders,currently 28-19-5 and third in the Metropolitan Division,are two points behind the Pittsburgh penguins. The addition of Palat is expected to provide a notable boost to their playoff aspirations. His 155 career playoff games and 103 playoff points (51 goals,52 assists) demonstrate his ability to perform under pressure.
For the Devils (27-24-2), the trade represents a shift in direction. While Palat was a respected veteran in the locker room, his departure opens up opportunities for younger players. New Jersey coach Sheldon Keefe acknowledged Palat’s impact, stating, “We’re going to miss ’Pally.’ He’s a tremendous guy, a great leader, and sets the example for hard work and competitiveness.”
Maxim Tsyplakov, the player heading to New Jersey, is a 27-year-old forward who had shown promise as a rookie but saw his ice time diminish this season.He has two points (one goal, one assist) in 27 games this season.
This trade is the second made by the Islanders in as many days, following the acquisition of defenseman Carson Soucy from the New York Rangers on Monday. These moves signal a clear intent by the Islanders to strengthen their roster and contend for a Stanley Cup.
Keywords: Ondrej Palat, New York Islanders, New Jersey Devils, NHL Trade, Mathieu Darche, Stanley Cup, NHL Playoffs, Maxim Tsyplakov, NHL News, Hockey trade, Metropolitan Division.
Secondary Keywords: NHL, Hockey, Trade Deadline, Player Trade, NHL Draft, Carson Soucy, Tampa Bay Lightning, Sheldon Keefe, Nico Hischier.
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