Islanders Extend Johnny Boychuk For 7 Years

Today, the New York Islanders sign top pair defenseman, Johnny Boychuk to seven-year, $42 million contract with a $6M AAV.  Previously signed line mate, Nick Leddy has a $5M AAV.  That’s $11.5M for a solid top pairing for Garth Snow’s Isles.   Another in a series of good moves by Snow in what may be the start of something great for this team for a long time to come.  Especially when consider contracts like those for Rangers defensemen, Daniel Girardi, who is making $5.5M until 19/20 and former Islander, Andrew MacDonald who will collect $5M until 19/20 from Philadelphia.

Boychuk has 32 points this season with a +17 rating through 59 games with New York.

Islanders General Manager, Garth Snow acquired Boychuk & Leddy on 10/14/14 in a major move to immediately solidify the Islanders blue line in front of previously signed free agent goaltender, Jaroslav Halak.  Moves that would immensely improve the Islanders season and future back end value. 

Snow said, “Johnny’s influence in our dressing room, both on and off the ice, has been immeasurable. His veteran presence is an asset that we are thrilled to help lead our club."

Per Pierre LeBrun, “Boychuk deal has $11 million in signing bonuses as part of that $42M total compensation, including $5.5 M signing bonus this July 1.”  While some of you might scoff at the term of the deal, what might turn out to be a couple of extra years at the tail end of the contract are worth the immediate and future gains provided by Boychuk, not to mention all the knowledge and character he brings to the room  It also solidifies a top defensive pairing that is as good as any in the NHL.  Johnny Boychuk on Nick Leddy: "It made it a lot easier to sign when you have chemistry like that with your defense partner." 

The best part of these signings is that they should once and for all prove a final killing blow to the stigma that top free agents scoff at signing with the Islanders.  Another huge gain of  the current team is the balance of vets and promising young talent, poised to build a long time contender that can sustain itself while giving prospects time to develop in the minor leagues.

Johnny Boychuk commented about signing on long term with the Isles, “Ever since I came to the Islanders, the organization has been incredible to both myself and my family,” Boychuk said. “I am proud to be an Islander and look forward to competing every night in front of such a passionate fan base for many years to come.”

Isles Notes:

D, Nick Leddy to miss at least 2 weeks with upper body injury.