New York, (OTHL) -- The predictions were correct, after the first major signing, the other big stars started to find new teams. Today the NY Islanders completed the signing of all-star forward Peter Forsberg, creating the biggest surprise in the off-season in the process. A lot of pundits and experts had Forsberg finding himself a home in a team closer to cup sucess. But insted he opted to sign for the Islanders, a team that after a couple of years at the bottom of the standings, now looks upwards.
The OTHL all-time leading scorer signed a contract simular to what Chris Pronger recived from the Buffalo Sabres. A four year deal worth in total $39 million dollars, witch includes the always popular no-trade clause. Forsberg who in the first two seasons of the OTHL have won the Art Ross twice. First by scoring 93 points with the Phoenix Coyotes, and last season with 97 points in Florida and the Panthers. Giving him 190 points in 160 played games. Forsberg is also tied for the all-time lead in plus-minus with Glen Murray. And the gifted Swede is not coming to the Islanders to play out his career.
"I still want to win, it’s the best motvation tool in the world, winning. And I think this team will become a great franchise in the OTHL. I was impressed with the way Mr. Jones persuaded me and he sold me on the franchise. He made a great case for his team and I truly believe this team will be a playoff team this season, and in the near future a cup contender.”
Forsberg joins Teppo Numminen as the Islanders free agent signings so far. And the NY Islanders fans hope that James Jones isn’t done just yet.
Other signings around the league :
· Wade Belak has found a new home in Montreal as he signed a 2 year deal with the Canadiens today.
· Scott Thornton re-joins the San Jose Sharks with a new 2 year deal in hand. Thornton played for the Coyotes last season.
· Ray Whitney became the Florida Panthers first off-season free agent signing. Whitney returns to Florida with a new 4 year deal.
· Kris Draper moves south, after playing with the Philadelphia Flyers last season, Draper moves to the music city and the Nashville Predators.
· Hard nosed winger Chris Simon decided to ink his name on a deal with the St Louis Blues today. The OTHL all-time penalty minute leader, will now play the next two seasons with the Blues.