How many teams has Mathew Barzal played for?

Mathew Barzal, born on May 26, 1997, is a Canadian ice hockey forward for the New York Islanders in the National Hockey League (NHL). He was drafted by the Islanders in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft and won the Calder Memorial Trophy as NHL's top rookie in 2017–18. Throughout his hockey career, Mathew Barzal has accumulated numerous accolades and awards, showcasing his exceptional talent and skill on the ice. As a minor player, he was recognized as the Top Scorer in the Brick Super Novice Tournament in 2007 and was named BC Hockey Player of the Year in 2013, along with earning the BCMML Most Points and a spot on the BCMML All-Star Team in the same year.

Transitioning to the WHL, Barzal continued to shine, earning spots on the WHL West First All-Star Team in both 2016 and 2017, as well as claiming the title of the WHL Playoff MVP in 2017. His success carried into the NHL, where he was named Rookie of the Month in January 2018 and went on to win the prestigious Calder Memorial Trophy the same year. Additionally, Barzal's prowess on the ice also earned him appearances in the NHL All-Star Game in 2019, 2020, and in 2024, which solidified his status as one of the league's top talents.

Also Read: Mathew Barzal contract

Mathew Barzal’s Team History

Mathew Barzal has played for one team throughout his NHL career: the New York Islanders. He was drafted by the Islanders in the first round (16th overall) during the 2015 NHL Entry Draft, and has remained with the team since then.

New York Islanders (2015- present):

Barzal's journey with the New York Islanders began when he was selected 16th overall in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft. Shortly after, on September 10, he inked a three-year entry-level contract with the Islanders. Despite making his NHL debut on October 15, 2016, Barzal was sent back to the Thunderbirds. Barzal went on to win the 2017 WHL championship with the Thunderbirds and was honored as the WHL Playoff MVP for his impressive performances throughout the WHL playoffs (25 points in 16 games).

Getting a recall to the Islanders, his inaugural NHL point came on October 15, 2017, against the Los Angeles Kings, followed swiftly by his first NHL goal against Henrik Lundqvist of the New York Rangers on October 19. Barzal's prowess continued to shine as he achieved numerous milestones throughout his rookie season. From setting franchise records for assists by a rookie to securing his first multi-goal game and hat trick. His exceptional achievements culminated in being named a finalist for the Calder Memorial Trophy and ultimately winning the prestigious award on June 20, 2018. Barzal's impact on the Islanders extended into subsequent seasons, where he made the NHL All-Star team on three separate occasions (2019, 2020 and 2024).

He is currently under an eight-year, $73.2 million contract with the Islanders, which will keep him with the franchise until the 2030-31 season.