Casey Cizikas avoided restricted free agency Thursday by inking a five-year, $16.75-million contract with the New York Islanders.
Cizikas’ new deal, which carries a salary cap hit of $3.35 million, extends through the 2020-21 season and marks a significant raise from the $1 million annual average of his expiring bridge deal.
The 25-year-old Toronto native scored a career-high 29 points (eight goals, 21 assists) in 80 games last season, his fifth with the Islanders. The depth forward added three assists in 11 playoff games.
“Casey has developed into a highly dependable two-way centre and we’re pleased to sign him through 2021,” general manager Garth Snow said in a release. “His energy and passion both on the ice and in the community, make him an invaluable piece of our lineup.”
The Islanders selected Cizikas in the fourth round (92nd overall) of the 2009 NHL Draft. In 290 career NHL games, Cizikas has 82 points (29 goals, 53 assists).
“I’m thrilled to remain a New York Islander for the next five years,” Cizikas said. “The organization has been first class ever since I was drafted, and we’ve come so far as a team during my time here. I’m excited to continue to be a part of this group as we build towards the ultimate goal, the Stanley Cup.”
Cizikas played his junior hockey with the Mississauga St. Michael’s Majors of the Ontario Hockey League and helped Team Canada win a silver medal at the 2011 IIHF World Junior Championship.
The value of his contract was first reported by Newsday‘s Arthur Staple.
The Cizikas deal clears up but one piece of a complicated future for New York’s forwards.
Core players Kyle Okposo, Frans Nielsen and Matt Martin are all set to become unrestricted free agents on July 1. Young Ryan Strome and Shane Prince are on target for restricted free agency.
June 2, 2016
New York Islanders
