For a second July 1 in a row, the Islanders went out and got a middle-six winger.
A year ago, it was Anthony Duclair.
This time, it’s Jonathan Drouin, who inked a two-year deal to go to Long Island at a reported $4 million AAV.
The Islanders have signed Jonathan Drouin in NHL free agency. NHLI via Getty Images
Drouin, who turned 30 in March, had 11 goals and 26 assists during an injury-shortened season with the Avalanche last year.
Though he’s dealt with injuries frequently in the past, Drouin has put up multiple seasons of over 50 points when healthy.
Jonathan Drouin controls the puck for the Avalanche against the Stars in Game 3 of the first round of the playoffs. Denver Post via Getty Images
For an Islanders team that has struggled in terms of scoring, Drouin should add more depth on the wing.
He also played power-play minutes in Colorado and should help a five-on-four unit that badly struggled last season.