ST. LOUIS — On Monday, the New York Islanders bolstered their defense by trading for Scott Perunovich from the St. Louis Blues, sending a conditional fifth-round draft pick in 2026 in return.

The announcement of the trade coincided with the Islanders previously signing Tony DeAngelo to a contract that will last for the remainder of the NHL season. DeAngelo made his first appearance on Saturday after signing a prorated deal worth $775,000 on Friday and successfully clearing waivers.

Despite a shaky start where they suffered losses in 27 out of 44 games, the Islanders have bounced back recently, winning four consecutive matches. They currently sit in seventh place in the eight-team Metropolitan Division.

Perunovich, 26 years old, has faced challenges staying in the lineup during his second full season, recording six points in 24 games. Over his career with the Blues, he has compiled 33 points while averaging slightly under 15 minutes of ice time over 104 games, which includes both regular season and playoff appearances. The Blues find themselves right outside the playoff picture in the Western Conference.

Born in Hibbing, Minnesota, Perunovich carries a contract worth $1.15 million and will become a restricted free agent this upcoming summer.