NHL Rumors: Islanders To Bring In Matt Martin Following Duclair Injury?

Despite Anthony Duclair’s long-term injury, the New York Islanders are not expected to bring back veteran forward Matt Martin, according to The Fourth Period. 

Duclair, who sustained the injury in Saturday's shootout win over the Montreal Canadiens, signed a four-year, $14 million deal with the Islanders this offseason and carries a full no-trade clause for the next two seasons. 

While the injury is not season-ending, it will keep Duclair out for an extended period, with GM Lou Lamoriello indicating that a more precise recovery timeline will be available after further testing.

#Isles Injury Update: Anthony Duclair will be out 4-6 weeks (lower body).

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) October 24, 2024

Even with Duclair’s absence creating a roster gap, Lamoriello confirmed that Martin, currently on a professional tryout (PTO) with the team, "isn’t in line" for a contract. 

Limited cap space, currently less than $228,000, restricts the Islanders' options for external additions. 

Any roster move, whether a signing or trade, would require a corresponding player to be moved to remain cap compliant, making internal solutions more likely. 

As Lamoriello stated, “We’ll explore options from within,” with a likely call-up from the AHL affiliate in Bridgeport to fill the void.

Photo Credit: Danny Wild-Imagn Images