New York Islanders, John Tavares reaches mega six-year deal worth $33 million -NHL offseason Update
New York Islanders confirmed that their high scoring former first overall draft pick, John Tavares, will be staying on their roster by signing him to a mega long term six-year contract worth a reported $33 million.
Staying a restricted free agent after finishing up his three-year, entry-level contract with New York earlier in July, Tavares, like Boston Bruins Brad Marchand, was going through a lengthy negotiation process due to him being unable to file for a salary
arbitration hearing. Not having enough years spent in the National Hockey League (NHL), the hearing was not an option, but New York was most likely to sign him on anyways.
According to New York Islanders general manager, Garth Snow, the management would not have liked it any other way and added that it was going to be done before training camp.
"Obviously it was a priority to get John signed", Snow said. "We could've waited another year to do that, but when you have a special player like John my own preference is to be proactive".
Even if Tavares were to have become an unrestricted free agent in July, he would not want to be with any other team rather than Islanders.
"This is where I wanted to live, play and ultimately lead our team to a Stanley Cup", Tavares said.
Drafted as the first overall pick during round-one of the 2009 NHL Entry Draft by New York Islanders, John Tavares has been a miracle player for the struggling major league franchise. His 54 point (24 goals, 30 assists) performance in his first season with
the team and an all 82-game performance, reassured them that a phenomenal player was on their side.
Last season, New York was surprised once again as the Missisauga, Ontario, Canada native, potted 67 points (29 goals, 38 assists) and missed only three games throughout. When asked what his motivation is, the 20-year-old had nothing but the Stanley Cup in
mind.
"The Stanley Cup is what we want", Tavares said. "That's what pushes us. That's what we're driven for. Obviously, sooner rather than later would be great”.
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