JUST IN: New York Islanders Bring Back Veteran Defenceman
As the NHL free agency window opens today, July 1st, the New York Islanders have re-signed unrestricted free agent and key member from last year’s team, veteran defenseman Mike Reilly. The extension was announced by General Manager Lou Lamoriello. The deal is team-friendly, securing Reilly for one year at a manageable $1.25 million. This move helps the Islanders maintain depth and experience on their blueline heading into the new season.
Mike Reilly Signs New Deal With Isles
Mike Reilly has had a notable nine-year NHL career, playing exactly 400 regular season games and accumulating 122 points. Throughout his career, he has been part of several teams, including the Minnesota Wild, Montreal Canadiens, Ottawa Senators, Boston Bruins, Florida Panthers, and New York Islanders.
Reilly was claimed off waivers by the Islanders from the Panthers early in the season, quickly becoming a crucial part of the Islanders’ defense during a period marked by injuries. He had a standout season, registering career highs with six goals and 18 assists for a total of 24 points in 59 games. In the playoffs, Reilly added a goal and an assist in the Islanders’ five-game series against the Carolina Hurricanes.
#Isles News: President/General Manager Lou Lamoriello announced today that the team has signed defenseman Mike Reilly to a one-year contract.
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) July 1, 2024
Reilly earned the trust of Head Coach Patrick Roy, averaging 17:15 of ice time per game. He was second among the defensemen in points with 14 and played on the third pairing alongside Robert Bortuzzo. This performance highlights Reilly’s ability to step up in critical situations and his importance to the team’s defensive stability.
What it Means
The re-signing of Mike Reilly is a significant move for the New York Islanders, allowing them to retain a key player from last season who had an immediate positive impact on the lineup. The front office recognized Reilly’s importance and secured him on a team-friendly contract of $1.25 million, which is crucial for a cap-strapped team like the Islanders.
This smart financial management by General Manager Lou Lamoriello, including the addition of Anthony Duclair at $3.5 million, leaves the Islanders with $1.06 million in cap space. While more moves are anticipated to free up additional funds, these strategic signings demonstrate the Islanders’ careful approach to maintaining a competitive roster within their cap constraints.