Hockey

Islanders Sign Malte Gustafsson to Entry-Level Deal, Plans Remain Unchanged

by
Richard Hayes
July 15, 2026

The New York Islanders made a significant move on Tuesday morning by signing their first-round pick, Malte Gustafsson, to a three-year entry-level contract. This agreement marks an important step in the young player’s journey as he continues to develop his skills.

Since the NHL Draft, when Gustafsson was selected 13th overall, the team has maintained a clear plan for his development. After speaking with him at the podium on draft night, it became evident that the expectation was for Gustafsson to return to the Swedish Hockey League (SHL) for another season with SV71. The Hockey News has confirmed that this plan remains intact despite his recent signing.

Gustafsson’s eligibility allows him to join the Islanders organization at the conclusion of his season, whether that be in the AHL or NHL, similar to the path taken by Victor Eklund last season. However, fans should temper their expectations regarding Gustafsson’s participation in the Islanders’ training camp this fall, as he is not anticipated to take part.

SV71 is set to kick off their season with their first game on September 19, marking the beginning of another critical year for Gustafsson’s development.

Note: This recap is an independently written summary based on publicly available reporting.

Richard Hayes

Richard Hayes is the go-to writer for all things soccer at 21Sports.com. His international perspective and in-depth knowledge of the game have made him a trusted voice in the industry. Richard’s experience covering major leagues around the world allows him to offer unique insights that resonate with both casual fans and die-hard enthusiasts. When not covering matches, Richard enjoys coaching youth soccer in his community.