The NY Islanders have emphasized signing local talent the last two summers, bringing in Marshall Warren of Laurel Hollow last year and Ross Mitton of Copiague Harbor at the end of this past season.
MItton, 25, played four years of NCAA hockey for Colgate University, taking advantage of his extra COVID year, transferring to the University of Maine for his fifth season.
After Maine's season, Mitton signed with the Islanders as a free agent, electing to play for his hometown team.
Mitton spent the summer skating with the Islanders
Being local to the area, Mitton has the advantage of being close to the Islanders' practice facility at Northwell Health, as well as the players while they're on the island.