Okposo Extended For 5 Years

Islanders Sign Kyle Okposo To A 5-Year Extension

Press Release

The New York Islanders announced today that forward Kyle Okposo has agreed to terms on a five-year contract. “I’m very excited to commit to the Islanders for the next five years, especially with the news of the new Coliseum,” Okposo said. “This team really showed its potential in the second half of the season last year and I’m excited to be a part of getting the franchise back to the playoffs.” Okposo, 23, scored five goals with 15 assists in 38 games for the Islanders last season. The St. Paul, MN, native missed the first 44 games of 2010-11 due to a shoulder injury, which he suffered during training camp. “Kyle has been a critical part of our young core over the past few seasons,” said Islanders General Manager Garth Snow. “He is a high character guy that brings size and a scoring touch to our lineup.” The Islanders selected Okposo in the first round, seventh overall, of the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. He has served as an assistant captain since 2009-10. In 192 career NHL games, all with the Islanders, Okposo has scored 116 points (44 goals, 72 assists). The 6’0”, 210-pound forward has also played in 35 American Hockey League games with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, and he’s represented the United States at two World Championships and two World Junior Championships. Before beginning his professional career, Okposo spent one season in the United States Hockey League with the Des Moines Buccaneers, followed by two collegiate years at the University of Minnesota.

CONTRACT TERMS:

LENGTH: 5 YEAR(S)     VALUE: $14,000,000     TYPE: STANDARD     EXPIRY STATUS: UFA
SEASON	AHL SALARY	NHL SALARY	P. BONUSES	S. BONUS	CAP HIT
2011-12	$1,000,000	$1,000,000	$0	$0	$2,800,000
2012-13	$2,000,000	$2,000,000	$0	$0	$2,800,000
2013-14	$3,000,000	$3,000,000	$0	$0	$2,800,000
2014-15	$3,500,000	$3,500,000	$0	$0	$2,800,000
2015-16	$4,500,000	$4,500,000	$0	$0	$2,800,000

PattyB Reaction:
I love this deal and am very surprised it was accepted by Kyle Okposo. He is going to put up at least 20 goals next season (if healthy) and about 30 assists, he is just a very solid player on both sides of the puck and to have a cap-hit at $2.8M for the next 5 years is stunning. Also I would not be surprised if Okposo is named the next captain of the Islanders which would make this deal even better. I mean having your captain, who is obviously a key player, locked up that cheap is impressive. Garth Snow deserves a lot of credit for this steal.