Islanders re-sign Toews, Burroughs while arbitration for Nelson awaits

The New York Islanders made two good moves after an offseason of questionable moves.  They were able to lock up both Devon Toews and Kyle Burroughs to two-year deals.

Toews is a one-way deal while Burroughs is a two-way deal.  Toews missed all of last season but has well exceeded expectations as a former 4th round draft pick.  Burroughs is a rugged D-man who provides good depth in the organization, playing in 75 games last season and compiling 25 points and 99 PIM.

With the signing of Toews, the Islanders may not be in the hunt for Erik Karlsson any longer.  The consensus always was there was a slim chance Karlsson would go to Long Island considering they just lost their captain to free agency.  Signing Toews to a one year deal pretty much confirms that notion, as the Islanders now have eight defensemen signed to the roster.  Unless there’s another move to be made, the Islanders will go into this season with a lot of unproven talent, Toews included.

As Toews and Burroughs got their deals settled today, Ryan Pulock and Brock Nelson are still awaiting their contracts.  Pulock can still sign with the Islanders at any time, but Nelson has filed for arbitration.  While Nelson has filed, he can still sign a deal with the Islanders before arbitration starts between July 20th and August 4th.  Nelson is coming off another inconsistent season, as he scored nearly 20 goals once again but disappeared for stretches at a time.

The Islanders are in good hands regardless of what happens.  In Lou We Trust, they say.  I’m still very wary of some of the moves he made, but between him and Barry Trotz I think the Islanders can be a better team defensively than they were last season.  That being said, it really doesn’t take much to be better.