NY Islanders Early Free Agency Recap

Hello and Goodbyes:

The New York Islanders made some big moves during the NHL Free Agency day, but it was the departures that have fans buzzing. Long-time Isles Frans Nielsen, Kyle Okposo, last years NHL hits leader Matt Martin, and Brain Strait have left the team.

Frans Nielsen spent 10 seasons with the Islanders ranking up 606 games played, 119 goals and 230 assists. The Great Dane of the blue and orange has now traded Brooklyn for hockey town, Detroit. Where he has signed a six-year, $31.5 million deal.

Kyle Okposo will be joining past teammate Matt Moulson up in Buffalo. Okposo has been with the Isles for nine seasons, recording 529 games played, 139 goals, and 230 assists. Okposo signed seven-year contract worth $42 million.

Fan favorite Matt Martin is returning to his home roots with the Toronto Maple Leafs. The league leader in hits has been with the Isles for seven seasons, with 438 games played, 42 goals, and 46 assists.

The locker room in Brooklyn will certainly have a different rhythm but General Manager Garth Snow has signed on some talent with extensive NHL experience.

Andrew Ladd signed a seven-year deal worth $38.5 million. Ladd has played in the NHL for 13 seasons with 769 games played, 210 goals, and 256 assists. Ladd also has playoff experience, considering his two Stanley Cup rings.

Along with adding scoring to the roster, Snow brought on physical player Jason Chimera to a two-year, $4.5 million deal. Chimera has the similar style of play as Matt Martin, curious to see if he will be the new fourth line leader.

The changes in the roster will allow the Isles youngsters such as Anders Lee and Brock Nelson to show their leadership and strength into the upcoming season.

As the Islanders mini camp is coming to an end, we are one step closer to seeing what October brings.

Newly Acquired NY Islander Andrew Ladd Takes a Shot during Warm-ups.

Newly Acquired NY Islander Jason Chimera Ties Up His Opponent in a Face-off Battle.