Farewell Jason Blake

Well, it seemed like an eternity to fans but Jason Blake has officially made the round from darling to Former Islander in the blink of an eye. After staunchly refusing to negotiate during the season GM Garth Snow just lost the most prized piece of the team's puzzle. Reports have it that Blake inked a 5 year, $20 million deal with the the much-hated Toronto Maple Leafs. In 508 career games with the Los Angeles Kings and the Isles, Blake scored 134 goals (all but 7 with the Isles) and 152 assists for 286 points. His breakout season, coming at the age of 33, was this past year where he tallied 69 points on the heals of 40 goals. He has had 4 consecutive 20+ goal seasons with the Islanders. The Islanders loss is another team's gain and despite the squad he now joins being on an FIW "List of the Despised" team. We still wish Blake well.

Dick Tarnstrom and Denis Grebeshkov

Two Former Islander defenseman were signed in one swoop by the Edmonton Oilers, Dick Tarnstrom and Denis Grebeshkov. Terms of the 1 year contracts have yet to be disclosed. The move means a return to NHL play for Tarnstrom who spent last season in Europe. In 4 pro seasons Tarnstrom has 126 points in 258 games including 32 goals (19 on the powerplay). Grebeshkov, received in the trade that brought Marc-Andre Bergeron to the Islanders, also spent last season abroad playing for Yaroslavl of the Russian Superleague. In only 33 games, this former first round pick, has 6 assists. The Oilers have now solidified what should shape up to be a much-improved blue line.

Jeff Hamilton

Former Islander Jeff Hamilton signed a 2 year $1.6 million deal with the Carolina Hurricanes. He will split the contract even over the two seasons and garnered interest with the 'Canes following his breakout year with the Chicago Blackhawks. Hamilton, discussed in detail on FIW, had 39 points in 70 games this season tallying 18 goals, 4 for game winners. He had two huge nights, as well, topping a 4-point December night with a 5-point game later in the season. He showed flashes of brilliance during the season which is why he garnered some major attention at the Free Agency opening. In 84 career games Hamilton has 47 points. We wish Jeff the best with his new team. He really earned himself a promotion.

Mathieu Schneider

Mathieu Schneider is moving on up to the West side. The Anaheim Ducks cast a line and reeled in the top-tier defenseman and Former Islander. The deal, $11.25 million over 2 years, will undoubtedly be on the the largest we see this offseason for a d-man. Our praise is well known around here for Schneider who is coming off back-to-back 50+ point seasons. With 52 points in 68 games with Detroit last season, Schneider was a force to be reckoned with. The only baggage he brings to the Ducks is his now questionable left wrist which was broken in the second round against the Sharks this postseason. Best of luck Mat Schneider.

Richard Zednik

Richard Zednik signed with the Florida Panthers for 2 seasons at $3.25 million. The oft-injured Zednik never clicked in his brief time with the Isles. In 10 games, after being acquired near the trade deadline, Zednik managed just 1 goal and 2 assists for the Isles. Despite friendly relations with Miro Satan it just never seemed to be for the right atmosphere for Zednik. His rift with the team furthered after he completely disappeared in the 5 playoff games against Buffalo. As with so many other FIs, we wish him the best in what might shape up to be a revitalized Panthers organization.

Tom Poti

Poti played one season for the Islanders and was a force at the blueline leading the d-men with 44 points in 78 games. He was especially effective on the man advantage tallying all 6 of his goals with the man advantage and 26 of his 38 assists. His second best season in the NHL paid off lucratively for Poti as the Washington Capitals snatched him up for big money: $14 million over 4 years. Best wishes to Poti whose career has seen prior stops with the Oilers and Rangers. Though a blip in the grand scheme of Islander defensive history he can always recall his days on the Island as the springboard to a career resurgence.

July 1: Free Agent Flood Gates Open

It is around 3:30 pm (EST) and word has it there are two new Former Islanders:

Richard Zednik's brief stay with the Isles is over. He has signed with the Florida Panthers.

Tom Poti is also joining the list. He has supposedly signed on with the Washington Capitals.

Stay tuned for impending word on Jason Blake, Ryan Smyth and more.