BOYCHUK HERE TO STAY

Below is the Team issued press release

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

BOYCHUK AGREES TO 7-YEAR DEAL

Defenseman will remain an Islander through 2021-22

UNIONDALE, NY (March 12, 2015) – The New York Islanders announced today that defenseman Johnny Boychuk has agreed to terms on a seven-year deal, signing through the 2021-22 season.

Boychuk, 31, leads all Islanders defensemen in points (32), assists (25) and plus-minus rating (+17) through 59 games this season. The Edmonton, Alberta native has already established career highs in goals (seven), assists and points in his first season with the Islanders and ninth professional season.

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

The Islanders acquired Boychuk in a trade with the Boston Bruins on October 4, 2014. In 380 career National Hockey League games with the Colorado Avalanche, Boston and the Islanders, Boychuk has 107 points (26 goals, 81 assists). He’s competed in the Stanley Cup playoffs for the past five seasons and won a Stanley Cup with Boston in 2011. In 79 career Stanley Cup Playoff games, the 6’2, 225-pound defenseman has scored 27 points (13 goals and 14 assists).

“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.”

Boychuk won the American Hockey League’s Eddie Shore Award at the completion of the 2008-09 season, given to the league’s most outstanding defenseman as voted by coaches, players and media members. That same season, while playing for the Providence Bruins, he was named a First Team AHL All-Star while leading all league defensemen in scoring with 66 points (20 goals and 46 assists) in 78 games. In 294 career games in the AHL, Boychuk has 45 goals and 108 assists for 153 points.

The Colorado Avalanche selected Boychuk in the second round (61st overall) of the 2002 NHL Draft.