Islanders Sign Tony DeAngelo to One-Year Deal

DeAngelo, 28, is a polarizing player. He has the unique distinction of being the only player in NHL history to be bought out twice, first by the New York Rangers in 2021 and again by the Philadelphia Flyers in 2023. He left the NHL this season to sign in the KHL. In 34 games, he posted six goals and 32 points. However, it has been reported he’s had some personality clashes with teammates based on his drive for offense and to hit bonuses.

Despite this tumultuous history, the Islanders’ saw the kind of numbers DeAngelo was putting up and seemed to think he could help. They need reinforcements on the blue line, and there likely aren’t a ton of feasible options via trade.

DeAngelo Brings Offense… But Anything Else?

Known for his offensive capabilities, the move is already polarizing on social media. DeAngelo brings an interesting and undeniable offensive skill set. He also brings with him a ton of baggage. He’s a puck-mover and power-play specialist, but his defensive shortcomings have been well-documented. His history with teammates has also been widely discussed, even if the opinions on how true those reports are vary.

Since DeAngelo played in Russia earlier this season, he will be placed on waivers at 2 p.m. ET, leaving his immediate status uncertain. Friedman writes that he is on waivers now and information about his status should be clear by Saturday.

For the Islanders, this move is as much about cap management as it is about filling a sudden gap in their roster. With Dobson sidelined, DeAngelo’s offensive upside could provide a short-term solution. If he plays well, he could be someone the Islanders try to flip at the trade deadline. If he doesn’t, his contract is small enough that the Islanders can dump it or bury it in the minors.

Whether this gamble pays off for the Islanders remains to be seen.