Islanders could become gold standard for retooling teams

The New York Islanders' remarkable turnaround this season could become the gold standard for teams looking to retool on the fly.

Mar 4, 2026; Anaheim, California, USA; New York Islanders defenseman Matthew Schaefer (48) warms up before the game against the Anaheim Ducks at Honda Center. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images | Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn ImagesThe New York Islanders could become the new template for retooling teams.

Before getting into the specifics of that claim, let’s just clarify the difference between a retool and a rebuild.

A rebuild is patently clear. The organization strips the team down as far as possible. That situation may entail jettisoning just about anybody who could…