The New York Islanders will be keeping the No. 5 pick in June’s NHL Entry Draft and giving the Buffalo Sabres their first-round selection next year to complete the Thomas Vanek trade, the club announced today.
The Isles had until June 1 to decide.
There had been some speculation the Isles would want to have their 2015 pick for a chance at Connor McDavid, arguably the biggest prospect since Sidney Crosby.
The Sabres now have three 2015 first-round picks. In addition to their own, they also have St. Louis’ from the Ryan Miller-Steve Ott trade. They have the No. 2 pick this year.
The Isles sent winger Matt Moulson, a No. 1 pick and 2015 second-round pick to the Sabres on Oct. 27 for Vanek, who lasted 47 games on Long Island.
Hopefully the isles blow next season along with the sabres. hopefully draft both mcdavid and eichel