Tavares Finally Signed

The New York Islanders have signed first overall pick, John Tavares to an entry level deal.

“It’s an exciting time for the Islanders organization as we develop our young talent into a contender,” said Islanders General Manager Garth Snow. “John provides another important piece to help us achieve our ultimate goal of winning a Stanley Cup.”

“I’m excited to officially become a part of the New York Islanders organization and begin my professional career this upcoming season,” said Tavares. “I look forward to joining the Islanders and be part of a team that’s ultimate goal is to bring the Stanley Cup back to Long Island.”

Now with Tavares on board, the question remains as to what the Islanders will do next. But according to Newsday reporter Greg Logan, the team is 99 percent finished.

"In other words, free agency for the Islanders pretty much began and ended with the signing of goaltender Dwayne Roloson to serve as the backup for rehabbing Rick DiPietro or as fulltime starter until DiPietro's return. There's not going to be any scoring help added from the outside by all indications nor any size on defense."

If that is the case, then the roster will definitely look like a second year rebuild. However, the Islanders will still be under the cap floor to start the season, so one should expect the Islanders to sign a forward, possibly through a bonus laden contract. The other course of action is of course through a trade or two. The next two or three blogs may research whom I believe will be the more money-savy ways for the Islanders to reach the cap floor.