The New York Islanders checked in at 30th overall in last year's ranking. The system was barren as ever, with no A-level talent and only a few prospects with a chance of even playing NHL games. Now, the Islanders seem determined to replenish their pool after losing in the first round of the playoffs. 

They kept their top picks in the 2024 NHL Draft, adding Cole Eiserman, a premium talent, and Jesse Pulkkinen, an intriguing, high-upside Finnish defender. These two players immediately slot in one and two in the team’s system. They’re the ones who pushed up the prospect pool to 24th overall. 

Looking at the rest of the system, a few of their remaining top prospects seem to have stalled in their development. It doesn’t mean they won’t make the NHL, but they will need a dominant next season to remain high on this list. 

Overall, the Islanders' system is still weaker than most, but it’s improving. They will have to continue adding to it, however, if they want to avoid a costly rebuild in the near future.