Rookie Anders Lee celebrates his 23rd goal with Johnny Boychuk during the first period for the Islanders.
AP Photo by Kathy Kmonicek/Getty Images

In a move that should give them staying power when they relocate to Brooklyn, the Islanders made big news by re-signing defenseman Johnny Boychuk to a seven-year $42 million. After dealing away two second round picks (2015 & 2016) plus a conditional 2016 third round pick to Boston for the veteran, they locked up their best defenseman to a long-term deal. In the final year of a deal that pays him $3.6 million, Boychuk will make nearly double earning $6 million per season.

The 31-year old Boychuk is having a career year with seven goals, 25 assists and 32 points. The 25 helpers and 32 points pace all Islander D. He also is plus-17 with four power play goals. For Team President and GM Garth Snow, who also locked up Nick Leddy to a seven-year deal worth $38.5 million, it was a no brainer. While Leddy recoups from an upper body injury that could sideline him up to two weeks, he took care of business with Boychuk. Boasting a top four that also features Travis Hamonic and Calvin de Haan, the Islanders are in good shape.

“Johnny’s influence in our dressing room, both on and off the ice, has been immeasurable,” Snow said in an interview on the team site. “His veteran presence is an asset that we are thrilled to help lead our club.”

“Ever since I came to the Islanders, the organization has been incredible to both myself and my family,” Boychuk said. “I am proud to be an Islander and look forward to competing every night in front of such a passionate fan base for many years to come.”