NYHN Daily Links: Barzal Signs Contract, Isles Core Locked Up & More

With the regular season inching closer and closer, the New York Islanders finally locked up their number one center Saturday, signing RFA Mat Barzal to a three-year deal. In regards to the signing, Barzal told reporters that if possible, he would have signed a longer-term deal as he loves being on the island. These stories and more on today’s daily links!

Prior to the Islanders’ Saturday practice, RFA Mat Barzal agreed to a three-year deal worth $21 million. (NYI Hockey Now)

Even after the long wait, Mat Barzal assured the media that he had no thought of playing anywhere else, even stating that he would have signed a long-term deal if finances would have allowed it. (NYI Hockey Now)

The Islanders also added some depth on Saturday, with the addition of goaltender Francis Marotte. (NYI Hockey Now) 

With Barzal signed, Arthur Staple breaks down that deal as well as what is next for the Islanders. (The Athletic)

Barzal’s new deal means that the Islanders core is together for the foreseeable future. (Newsday) 

The Pittsburgh Penguins canceled practice due to possible COVID-19 exposure. (Pittsburgh Hockey Now)

Evander Kane is back in the news as Centennial Bank is claiming the forward owes them more than $8.3 million in principle and interest. (San Jose Hockey Now)

Jared Bednar, head coach of the Colorado Avalanche, said that 22-year old defenseman Conor Timmins has earned top-six minutes and will replace Erik Johnson in the starting lineup who currently is unfit-to-play. (Colorado Hockey Now)

Two-time Stanley Cup Champion Corey Crawford has officially retired from the National Hockey League. (NHL.com)

Ever wonder how NHL teams pick their locker room DJ? Luke Fox did and produced this story. (Sportsnet)