Rangers Near Deal to Trade Carson Soucy to Islanders

Emerson Raymont

Published: January 26, 2026 11:35 PM ET

Rangers Near Deal to Trade Carson Soucy to Islanders

The New York Rangers have finalized a trade with the New York Islanders, sending defenseman Carson Soucy to Long Island. The teams announced the move on Monday night, which involves a third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft going back to the Rangers.

Trade Details

Defenseman Involved: Carson Soucy
Team Acquiring Soucy: New York Islanders
Compensation for Rangers: Third-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft
Soucy’s Contract: $3.25 million cap hit, eligible for unrestricted free agency after the season
Games Played This Season: 46
Points Collected: 8
Average Ice Time: 17:13

Reasons for the Trade

The Islanders have faced injuries to key players including Kyle Palmieri, Pierre Engvall, Alexander Romanov, and likely Semyon Varlamov. This trade is expected to bolster their blue line in light of these absences.

With a full roster, the Islanders must create space for Soucy. They could potentially place defenseman Ryan Pulock on injured reserve or send another player down to their AHL affiliate, Bridgeport.

Soucy’s Role with the Islanders

Carson Soucy, a left-handed defenseman, may serve as a replacement for Romanov. The Islanders had previously struggled to fill this gap since Romanov’s injury in mid-November. There are concerns about the impact of Pulock’s recent upper-body injury, which may be driving the urgency for the trade.

Trade History and Context

This trade is notable as it marks the first transaction between the Rangers and Islanders since 2010. The previous trade involved the Rangers acquiring defenseman Jyri Niemi from the Islanders for a sixth-round pick.

General Manager Chris Drury has initiated a retooling effort for the Rangers. This move reflects his willingness to make significant changes, as various players including Artemi Panarin, Vincent Trocheck, and Alexis Lafrenière are in trade discussions.

Current Standings

The Islanders are entering this trade positioned third in the Metropolitan Division. Strengthening their defense could be crucial as they aim to secure a playoff spot.