Locked On Islanders - Daily Podcast On The New York Islanders

The New York Islanders face a pivotal offseason as their right defense depth raises urgent questions—is University of North Dakota’s Keaton Verhoeff the answer? Gil Martin spotlights Verhoeff's towering skill set, power play prowess, and the bold draft trade scenarios required to bring this elite right-shot defenseman to Long Island. Could a creative package for a top-four pick reshape the Islanders' blue line and reignite their Stanley Cup hopes?

Roster strategy dominates the conversation, with Tony DeAngelo’s future in doubt amid tight salary cap constraints and a thin free-agent market for right defensemen. Gil Martin breaks down alternatives like Simon Nemec and Jordan Spence, updates coaching hires for the Hamilton Hammers, and honors Dave Fortier’s forgotten role in the magical 1975 playoff run. The clock is ticking—will the Islanders make the bold moves needed to fix their biggest weakness and return to contention?

All this and more on today's Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin.

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Decagon

Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.

 

Rugiet

Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl

Rugiet. Performance medicine for men.

 

Odoo

Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon.

 

Indeed

Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.

 

KALSHI

For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

 

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

 

5-Hour ENERGY

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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The New York Islanders eye dynamic scorer Wyatt Cullen at 13th overall—could his top-tier skating and hockey IQ finally ignite the Islanders’ offense? With NHL bloodlines and a meteoric rise in draft rankings, Cullen’s creativity, speed, and relentless motor draw comparisons to Mat Barzal while offsetting concerns over his recent injuries and sample size.

Gil Martin breaks down Cullen’s full skill set and fit within the Islanders lineup, explores Bryan Trottier’s stamp honor as a Canadian Indigenous sports leader, and weighs the buzz around a potential outdoor game at Belmont Park. Coaching updates include Jim Hiller’s new post with the Toronto Maple Leafs and speculation around the Islanders’ assistant coaching search. Islander nostalgia hits with a spotlight on Tomi Pettinen as Birthday of the Day. Are the Islanders’ youth investments about to pay off—and will Belmont host the NHL’s next great outdoor spectacle?

All this and more on today's Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Decagon

Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.

 

Rugiet
Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl
Rugiet. Performance medicine for men.

Odoo

Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 

Indeed

Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.

KALSHI

For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

5-Hour ENERGY

Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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The New York Islanders target draft speed and scoring—is Viggo Bjorck the missing piece for a Stanley Cup run? Scouting reports highlight the Swedish center’s standout performance at the World Juniors, maturity on and off the ice, and potential to become a dynamic top-six forward. The conversation focused on Bjorck’s strengths—high hockey IQ, responsible two-way game, and deceptive shot—while questioning whether he will be available at pick 13 and if his size could impact NHL success.

A key theme that emerged was team building and roster strategy, with insights drawn from the Carolina Hurricanes’ recent Stanley Cup win. The discussion explored the need for a strong foundation through the draft, patience in constructing a contending core, and recent signings like Ethan Bear. Updates include Sebastian Aho’s departure to Europe and a birthday tribute to Islanders legend David Volek. Can the Islanders’ new approach return them to contender status?

You can order Kevin Sweeney's new book on the 25-26 Islanders here: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0H573GKGH

All this and more on today's Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Decagon

Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.

 

Rugiet
Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl
Rugiet. Performance medicine for men.

Odoo

Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 

Indeed

Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.

KALSHI

For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

5-Hour ENERGY

Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The New York Islanders celebrate a decade of defining moments—was winning the draft lottery and selecting Matthew Schaefer the turning point for a new era? Gil Martin spotlights Schaefer's Calder Trophy-winning debut, Ilya Sorokin’s franchise-saving goaltending, and the steady leadership of Anders Lee. Unforgettable playoff series wins, including John Tavares’ double-overtime heroics and back-to-back runs to the Eastern Conference Final, anchor the countdown of the Islanders’ top moments over the last ten years.

Who were the Islanders’ top five players of the decade? Gil Martin delivers a detailed breakdown, debating the lasting impact of Brock Nelson, Josh Bailey, and Mathew Barzal. The episode also reflects on pivotal decisions like hiring Barry Trotz and Lou Lamoriello’s influence, bringing fresh insight for diehard Isles fans. Locked On Islanders emerges as more than a show—it’s a passionate community marking a milestone in team and podcast history.

All this and more on today's special 10th Anniversary episode of the Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Decagon

Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.

 

Rugiet
Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl
Rugiet. Performance medicine for men.

Odoo

Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 

Indeed

Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.

KALSHI

For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

5-Hour ENERGY

Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The New York Islanders face critical offseason decisions as Ondrej Palat’s $6 million cap hit looms. Could a buyout or trade unlock the flexibility needed to upgrade a roster that’s missed the Stanley Cup playoffs three times in five years? The conversation focused on Palat’s declining production, challenging contract, and whether retaining salary or seeking draft pick compensation makes sense for GM Mathieu Darche. Is prioritizing cap space over keeping aging veterans the right call as the Islanders pursue a return to postseason contention?

A key theme that emerged was balancing immediate competitiveness with long-term growth. The discussion explored the influence of Islanders ownership on hockey operations strategy, weighing short-term playoff revenue against patient roster development. Scouting spotlight fell on draft prospect Daxon Rudolph, whose strong two-way play and mobility could address the Islander blue line needs. Listeners weigh in: is it time for bold moves, or does patience pay off for New York’s future?

All this and more on today's Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin.

Everydayer Club
If you never miss an episode, it’s time to make it official. Join the Locked On Everydayer Club and get ad-free audio, access to our members-only Discord, and more — all built for our most loyal fans. Click here to learn more and join your team’s community: https://lockedonpodcasts.com/everydayerclub

Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors!

Decagon

Ready to transform your customer support? Go to decagon.ai/LOCKEDONNHL to get a personalized demo and see what Decagon can do for your team.

 

Rugiet
Get 15% off your treatment → https://rugiet.com/lockedonnhl
Rugiet. Performance medicine for men.

Odoo

Great organizations win because operations matter. And that’s why you should get Odoo. Try for free today at https://Odoo.com/lockedon. 

Indeed

Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to https://indeed.com/podcast right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply.

KALSHI

For a limited time, download the Kalshi app and use code LOCKEDON to get ten dollars when you trade ten. Kalshi. Trade on anything.

Gametime

Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDON for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. Download Gametime today. What time is it? Gametime.

FanDuel

Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. From the opening whistle to the final kick, Let There Be Goals on FanDuel. Visit https://FANDUEL.COM to get started now.

5-Hour ENERGY

Get candy-flavored chaos with Fruity Rainbow 5-hour ENERGY®️ Shots - available online at https://5hourENERGY.com or Amazon

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.