Garth Snow and the New York Islanders avoided an arbitration case by re-signing young Ryan Strome to a 2-year deal.
New York Islanders forward Ryan Strome signed a 2-year, $5 million dollar deal ($2.5/year) Tuesday morning, avoiding arbitration and missing the season by just under 48 hours.
Isles fans know the scenario very well. The exact situation happened last season with forward Brock Nelson.
Nelson went unsigned until literally the night before camp at around 10pm. However, Nelson had scored 41 points in his 2014-15 sophomore campaign and definitely had more leverage than what Strome held.
In 2014-2015 Strome put up 17 goals and 50 points. Unfortunately, what followed a promising first year was a meager eight goals and 28 points in 2015-16. It was undoubtedly an off year for the forward but the potential is undeniably there.
Despite this, it was clear that the forward and management had faith in his abilities to bounce back and be a catalyst in 2016-17. This 2-year deal is the perfect “show me” contract for Strome. He’ll need to establish two solid, consistent seasons with the Islanders if he wants to reap his big payday in 2018.
Looking Ahead:
With Strome finally signed, management and fans can breathe a sigh of relief. If the Islanders are to take another step forward next season, Strome will be a large factor in ensuring that progress. The offense overall took a step back in 15-16 when compared to 14-15 and a large part of that was due to players like Lee and Strome regressing.
#Isles Transaction: Ryan Strome has agreed to terms on a two year deal. https://t.co/AQXFKzKabz pic.twitter.com/9WXN4jQTbr
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) September 20, 2016
Strome is one of the designated centers heading into next season. With the plethora of natural centers at the Islanders disposal, the club is hoping the departure of Frans Nielsen isn’t as big of a hit as it is predicted to be by many experts. Having Nelson and Strome play center on a much more consistent basis will allow them to turn the page and at least surpass last season’s totals.
With Strome back at center, and more consistency in his season it isn’t unrealistic to expect the forward to put away 20 goals and another 20-25 more points.
