The New York Islanders have reached an extension with defenseman Thomas Hickey on a two-year deal with a $2.5 million cap hit, according to multiple reports including Darren Dreger of TSN and Arthur Staple of The Athletic. He was set to become an unrestricted free agent today, and had contact from several teams during last week’s free agent listening period.
It’s a safe deal for the Islanders as they look to solidify a blueline that is in transition with Calvin de Haan testing free agency. Hickey is usually effective in a second- or third-pairing role, and a good bet to thrive under new coach Barry Trotz.