Islanders Acquire Perunovich to Bolster Injury-Riddled Defense

Scott Perunovich © Instagram / scorinscott

The New York Islanders have addressed their defensive woes by acquiring Scott Perunovich from the St. Louis Blues in exchange for a conditional fifth-round pick in the 2026 NHL Draft.

The 26-year-old defenseman could see immediate action, potentially making his debut against the Colorado Avalanche on Tuesday. Perunovich adds depth to a blue line depleted by injuries.

Ryan Pulock and Marcus Hogberg are both out indefinitely with upper-body injuries sustained in the Islanders’ recent win over Carolina. This adds to a growing list of sidelined Islanders defensemen that already included Noah Dobson and Mike Reilly.

Perunovich is a capable offensive defenseman, having recorded six points (two goals, four assists) in 24 games with the Blues this season. He’s also nearing restricted free agency status, which could be a factor for the Islanders’ future plans.

The Islanders are hoping Perunovich can help them weather the storm of injuries and continue their recent success.

By Vitalina Andrushchenko, Staff Writer