Islanders Claim Adam Boqvist From Waivers

Islanders Claim Adam Boqvist From Waivers

Adam Boqvist is now the latest name on a blueline makeover. The New York Islanders claimed the former top prospect from waivers earlier today. It was Elliotte Friedman that first confirmed the news minutes ago:

NYI claims Boqvist

— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) January 31, 2025

A corresponding move here is moving rookie defenseman Isaiah George down to AHL Bridgeport. He has a promising future but recently hit a wall after a strong start to life in the NHL.

After adding Tony DeAngelo as well as Scott Perunovich, Lou Lamoriello is not finished. His team is on a six game winning streak, with their push more than enough reason in his eyes to add. At the time of writing, the Isles are only four points out of a Wild Card spot with a major matchup tomorrow night against a current playoff team in the Tampa Bay Lightning. Winning that game would only put them two points out of a playoff spot with the same amount of games played. Much like the end of last season, Patrick Roy’s team is finding their stride after a slow start.

Much like the aforementioned DeAngelo, Boqvist is an offensive defenseman who struggles in his own end. After signing a minimum deal with Florida, he only put up 6 points in 18 games with a -4. The former eighth overall pick does have talent, putting up 24 points in 46 games with Columbus two seasons ago. Check out his advanced metrics below:

Adam Boqvist, claimed by NYI, is an offensive defenceman who skates well and has some creativity with the puck but has had a tough time carving out a role for himself due to poor defensive play. #Isls pic.twitter.com/GGJ8rvCerS

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) January 31, 2025

More To Come?

One of the main topics of conversation in Isles land is that of Noah Dobson. The pending RFA is currently in LTIR after taking a rough hit a couple of games ago. However, in his absence it seems the team has been able to take a step forward. Obviously, you have to do something well to be a 70-point defenseman in the NHL. However, it seemed that he regressed from that level and continued inconsistent play and frequent errors in his own end. DeAngelo in particular highlighted Dobson’s inability to be a high-level powerplay QB. He doesn’t have that skating ability to walk the blue line or a shot that instills fear in opponents.

Again, everything I say from here out is a longshot. But is Dobson a potential trade candidate ahead of the deadline. I reiterated a while ago how fond Bo Horvat was of playing with Elias Pettersson. With each passing day, it looks more likely that the Canucks could deal both him and JT Miller. If Vancouver has an interest in Dobson then there may not be a better opportunity to strike. Packing Dobson with another forward on the roster along with some prospects and picks may have the chance to pique Jim Rutherford’s interest. It’s still a pipe dream but not completely off the table.

Brandon Saad Inks Prorated One-Year Deal With Vegas

Lou Lamoriello and the Islanders are clearly working the phones. After claiming Adam Boqvist off waivers, their blueline looks drastically different from opening night.

Subscribe to Vendetta’s Twitch

Check out Vendetta Fantasy Contests

Subscribe to Vendetta’s YouTube

Click here for more NHL content