NHL Rumors: Bo Horvat Sends Strong Message to Islanders Amid Trade Rumors

New York Islanders forward Bo Horvat reacts during 2025 game.

After the New York Islanders shocked the NHL by trading top defenseman Noah Dobson to the Montreal Canadiens for two first-round picks, speculation quickly turned to who might be next.

One name that naturally surfaced was Bo Horvat. The veteran forward, however, made it abundantly clear to team management that he has no intention of going anywhere.

Horvat’s Message: “You Better Not Trade Me”

During an appearance on the Cam and Strick Podcast, newly appointed Islanders assistant GM Matt Martin revealed that Horvat texted him immediately after the front office shakeup, jokingly, but also seriously, saying, “You better not trade me.”

Matt Martin on the @CamandStrick about his new role with the #Isles:

“Bo Horvat texted me right away, actually. He just said, you better not trade me, was the first thing he said.“

Full clip below. 😂 pic.twitter.com/cpSkfZkuWG
— Rob Taub (@RTaub_) July 24, 2025

Horvat’s full no-trade clause gives him complete control over his future, meaning the Islanders would need his permission to move him. His latest statement makes it clear he intends to use that leverage to stay on Long Island.

No Reunion With Vancouver

Horvat’s declaration effectively ends any chatter about a potential reunion with the Vancouver Canucks. Vancouver had reportedly been monitoring the Islanders’ situation, hoping to potentially fill their second-line center void with their former captain. But with Horvat committed to the Islanders and holding trade protection, any such move is off the table.

A lot of people wishing/hoping that Bo Horvat would return to play 2C for the @Canucks again.

Bo gave an update on his trade situation...#isles #canucks @mattsekeres | @justBlakePrice
Presented by @bet365ca | #NeverOrdinary #bet365 pic.twitter.com/qrZWkX85QQ
— Sekeres and Price (@sekeresandprice) July 28, 2025