Perhaps no other team has spent so much time in the depths of the NHL’s worst over the past few years than the New York Islanders (despite the Oilers of course).  However, GM Garth Snow set out to help change that on day 1 of NHL free agency by adding winger Brad Boyes and grinder Matt Carkner.

Carkner comes to the Islanders on a 3 year deal worth $4.5 million.  The winger recorded 3 points in 29 games last season for the Senators and will come the a young Long Island club hoping to add some grit and leadership to the squad.

Boyes is of a different pedigree than Carkner and is coming off a poor season with just 23 points in 65 games for the Buffalo Sabres.  Boyes however has been known for is goal scoring ability as he posted 43 goals in the 07-08 season and 33 in the following season for the Blues.
The Islanders no doubt will continue to revamp their roster especially after the loss of set-up man PA Parenteau who will know be a member of the Colorado Avalanche.  No word yet on who will replace Parenteau on the top line with Tavares and Moulson but there are plenty of options considering the addition of Boyes and the prospect of high draft picks Ryan Strome and Nino Niederreiter getting close to being ready to make the jump to the NHL.

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