Vladimir Dravecky inks three-year entry-level deal with Islanders

The New York Islanders announced Wednesday that they have signed Czech defence prospect Vladimir Dravecky to a three-year, entry-level contract. The 18-year-old right-shot blueliner was selected by the club in the fifth round of the 2026 NHL Draft and has been developing in the Ontario Hockey League.

OHL development path through Brantford and Guelph

Dravecky is in his second OHL season and has started 2026-27 on a positive note with the Guelph Storm. Through four games, he has recorded one goal and three assists for four points, continuing the offensive contributions he showed last year in Brantford.

In 2025-26, Dravecky made his North American debut with the Brantford Bulldogs. Over 58 regular-season games, he produced nine goals and 19 assists for 28 points from the blue line. He added three assists in 11 playoff games as Brantford advanced to the OHL’s Eastern Conference Final, giving him experience in high-pressure situations early in his career.

Before crossing the Atlantic, Dravecky played in Sweden with Rögle BK’s junior team during the 2024-25 campaign. He posted six goals and 10 assists for 16 points in 37 games, showing the puck-moving ability that helped put him on NHL scouts’ radar ahead of the 2026 draft.

International résumé and scouting projection

Dravecky has also built a significant international résumé with Czechia. He suited up at the 2026 World Junior Championship, helping his country earn a silver medal. Two years earlier, he appeared at the 2024 Hlinka Gretzky Cup, where he finished with three assists in five games and again came away with silver.

Daily Faceoff prospect analyst Steven Ellis ranked Dravecky No. 70 in his final top-120 list for the 2026 draft class. Ellis highlighted Dravecky’s composure and reliability, writing that, “There isn’t anything spectacular about Dravecky’s game, but he’s stable at both ends and doesn’t take many unnecessary risks.” The projection from Ellis is that Dravecky profiles as a steady, defence-first option who could eventually settle into a third-pairing role at the NHL level.

By signing Dravecky to his first NHL deal, the Islanders add another young right-shot defender to their prospect pool. He is expected to continue logging key minutes in junior and gaining further international experience before challenging for a spot in the organization’s pro ranks.