What's Happening?
The New York Islanders announced the recall of defenseman Cole McWard from their AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Islanders, on Saturday morning. McWard, who is in his first season with the organization,
has accumulated 16 points, including 5 goals and 11 assists, over 29 games with Bridgeport. He joined the Islanders on a one-year, two-way contract signed on July 1, 2025, after spending parts of the previous three seasons with the Vancouver Canucks organization, primarily playing for their AHL affiliate in Abbotsford.
Why It's Important?
McWard's recall is significant for the Islanders as they seek to bolster their defensive lineup. His performance in the AHL demonstrates his potential to contribute at the NHL level, providing depth and flexibility to the team's roster. This move could impact the Islanders' defensive strategies and overall team performance as they navigate the season. Additionally, McWard's development and integration into the NHL could influence future contract negotiations and roster decisions for the team.
