Mon, Jan 27, 2025 at 1:35pm

ISLANDERS PICK UP PERUNOVICH

The New York Islanders acquired defenseman Scott Perunovich from the St. Louis Blues for a conditional fifth-round draft pick in 2026.

What does it give the New York Islanders
The Islanders recently lost several defenders to injuries, so Perunovich will give them some much-needed depth. A former second-round pick, Perunovich has shown potential as an offensive defenseman, but he never found a fit with the Blues. He should now get a long look in New York, where he is likely to also see power-play usage. This looks like a good low-risk addition for the Isles, as they try to stay in the playoff hunt this season.

What does it give the St. Louis Blues
Perunovich again failed to earn an everyday role in St. Louis this season. Clearly, the Blues did not view him as a long-term contributor, so they will give him a fresh start and add a draft pick instead. A fifth-rounder is an underwhelming return, but Perunovich's inconsistency likely made it difficult to do better than that. Did they let Perunovich go too soon? Perhaps, although his defensive game is never likely to be good enough to be used regularly.

Fantasy impact
Perunovich gets a definite boost in the short term. In New York, he figures to challenge for a bottom-four D-man spot and get power-play ice time (with both Noah Dobson and Ryan Pulock out with injuries). Perunovich may need to earn a longer-term role, but his offensive upside and the change of scenery make him worth a look in deeper fantasy leagues.