Islanders Off-Season 2015: Islanders Re-Sign Lee

Today, your New York Islanders announced today that 24 yr old, Anders Lee (F) has agreed to terms on a $15M, four-year, $3.75M per contract extension.  Lee was 25 and 16 for 41 pts in 76 games in his rookie season with the Isles.  After a brief tune up in Bridgeport, Lee jumped into the Isles line up and became a regular contributor last season, including a few tours on the first line with John Tavares.

The former 6th round selection wasn’t sure he wanted to play hockey at one time, but said he was committed to the Islanders after they drafted him in 2009. Overall, Lee has 46 pts in 49 games of AHL play and 57 points in 100 NHL games with New York.

On Lee, Islanders general manager, Garth Snow said, “We’re thrilled to have another home-grown talent signed long term.”

Anders Lee told Arthur Staple that the game 6 & 7 scratches didn't change his view of the Islanders organization. "That had nothing to do with where I want to be. This has been home for me."  Lee went on to tell islanders.nhl.com, “I’m extremely excited to finalize this deal and ensure that I’m a New York Islander for the next four seasons,” Lee said. “The organization has been nothing but first class to me from the moment I was drafted. I look forward to competing for the Stanley Cup in each year while playing in front of the best fans in the NHL."

Stephen Lorenzo said, “I'm told Garth Snow is done for the day, but I'd expect Hickey is done tomorrow. That deal is close.”  The Hickey deal is said to be in the 3yr/$6.5M range.  Soon, the same may be true for F, Brock Nelson.  Nelson has no arbitration rights.

The Islanders will open the July 1st free agency period with the eyes of Isles country fixed upon them.  While I don’t expect much aside from a backup goaltender signing, if the right opportunity presents itself, you could see a wing added to the roster in the next few days.  There is also a chance Snow sticks with the group he has for now.  He has said as much a few times now.

Last season, Boychuk and Leddy weren’t added until the last minute, so it’s reasonable to assume more of the same for Snow and company going into the inaugural season at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center.  Per @NHLnumbers, “The Islanders have 11 forwards, 5 defense men, and a goalie signed with almost $13 million in free cap space.” 

The Islanders have options going into next season.  Tomorrow at noon, more of the picture may start to come into focus. 

Just enjoy the ride.

Isles Notes:

Isles extend qualifying offers to six restricted free agents.  Isles RFA, John Persson was not given QO.

Isles announce Blue and White rosters.   

Per Robert Brodsky, “Nassau today issued an RFP to renovate rink at Cantiague Park in Hicksville for @NYIslanders practice facility.  35,000-sq.-ft. two-story building being fast tracked. Work on 1st floor to be done by 1/16; 2nd floor office by 3/16; the rest by 6/15/16."

Doug Weight was not inducted into the HHOF.