Islanders Re-Sign Gibson

The Islanders are pretty happy with their NHL depth of a Halak, Griess and Berube trio in goal right now.  But before that and over the last several seasons, the Islanders organizational depth below the NHL level looked promising as well.  It turned out that Poulin and Nilsson weren’t all they were thought to be and the Islanders found themselves regularly rotating 4-5 goalies throughout each season due to Nabokov’s injuries or the need for a change in keeper consistency.

Today, they are seemingly deep once again (McAdam, Soderstrom, Sorokin), especially after retaining Finnish net-minder, Christopher Gibson by signing him to a one year, two-way contract for a $660,000 NHL/$70,000 AHL cap hit (@generalfanager).  The 23 year old made some waves with the Islanders AHL affiliate Bridgeport Sound Tigers last season where he led the team in games played and wins (19) while posting a 2.70 gaa and .909Sv%.

And you may have remembered Gibson’s first NHL win.  He just helped the Isles clinch a playoff berth against the Washington Capitals in an exciting 4-3, O.T. thriller (Hickey), no big deal.  Gibson has shown a steady resolve, even after falling behind.  His play in that game against the caps was a good example of his focus.

After coming over as part of the trade that sent Michael Grabner to the Maple Leafs, Gibson (Kings 2011, 2nd round, 49th overall selection) has paid some dividends for the Islanders organization with the BST and will no doubt have his chance to shine with Stephon Williams next season.

‏@CGibber37  “Really happy to be a part of the @NYIslanders organization for another year!! #IsItOctoberYet”

Isles Notes:

Islanders rumored to be a finalist on list to retain services of Hobey-Baker winner, Jimmy Vesey.

Ryan Strome remains the only unsigned RFA for New York and is likely to wait as long as possible to try and sign a deal ala Brock Nelson.   While ineligible for arbitration, Strome is very limited in what he can do to change the future if he wants to remain an Islander.

J.T. still isn't going anywhere.