Former Islanders Defenseman Waived By Divisional Foe

The New York Islanders did not undergo a ton of roster turnover between the end of the 2025-26 season and the start of the 2026-27 season.

The only clear focus from the Islanders became opening up clear roster opportunities for younger players as the Islanders turn their attention toward the future with their prospect pools.

One player who left the organization was defenseman Carson Soucy.

Soucy, 32, spent the back half of the 2025-26 season with the Islanders after they acquired him from the New York Rangers in exchange for a 2026 third-round pick.

The Islanders brought Soucy in as insurance after Alexander Romanov suffered a season-ending injury and struggled to replace the Russian defender.

Soucy played 30 games for the Islanders, posting two goals and four points over that time.

After the season, he became a free agent. 

The Columbus Blue Jackets gave Soucy a PTO, and he eventually earned himself a contract and roster spot by the time the season began. The deal is a one-year, $1.15 million contract. 

However, he's since struggled with the Jackets, playing in just 7 of their 10 games. Soucy has one assist and is a -5 through those seven games.

The Jackets placed Soucy on waivers Wednesday afternoon.

Should Soucy clear, it's expected he will be sent to the AHL and report to the Cleveland Monsters.