The New York Islanders have completed a move that adds depth to their defensive corps, bringing in 22‑year‑old Ryan Healey from the Minnesota Wild. The transaction, finalized in exchange for future considerations, was confirmed by both clubs this week.
Healey arrives after a four‑year stint at Harvard University, where he honed his defensive skills and contributed offensively from the blue line. In the most recent 2025‑26 season he posted four goals and eight assists, totaling 12 points and finishing second among Crimson defensemen in scoring.
A Collegiate Journey Marked by Consistency
Over the course of his collegiate career he appeared in 130 games, accumulating 19 goals and 36 assists for 55 points. His consistency earned him a place on the NCAA All‑Ivy League First Team for the 2023‑24 season and a spot on the ECAC All‑Rookie Team as a freshman.
Selected by the Wild in the fourth round of the 2022 NHL Draft, Healey now looks to translate his college success to the professional stage. Islanders coach Marco Sturm praised the youngster’s work ethic and versatility, noting that his addition could provide a fresh spark on the penalty kill and in transition play.
Healey’s path from Chicago’s youth leagues to the Ivy League spotlight reflects a steady progression. His ability to read the game and make smart passes has drawn attention from analysts who see him as a potential shutdown specialist with offensive upside.
The Islanders hope that integrating a player with his blend of size, skating and hockey IQ will strengthen a defense that has faced injuries this season. General manager Lou Lamoriello emphasized that the trade aligns with the team’s long‑term strategy of developing home‑grown talent while bolstering the roster for immediate contention.