NHL Free Agency Rumors: Islanders sign Jason Chimera

May 7, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Jason Chimera (25) controls the puck in front of Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Kris Letang (58) in the second period in game five of the second round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 3-1 as the Penguins lead the series 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /

The New York Islanders are closing in on wily veteran Jason Chimera.

In Jason Chimera’s 15-year NHL career, he’s only ever known three teams: the Edmonton Oilers, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Washington Capitals. But now, he’s about to add a fourth team to his resume in the New York Islanders.

Bob McKenzie was the first to report the deal, while Elliotte Friedman disclosed the full details of Chimera’s new contract:

NYI closing in on a two-year deal on Jason Chimera.
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) July 1, 2016

At 37 years old, there isn’t much that Chimera can add offensively, even though he is coming off a 20 goal season in Washington. But with Matt Martin expected to leave the Islanders, and Kyle Okposo already signed with the Buffalo Sabres, Chimera shores up their winger depth. If he doesn’t work out, he only cost them $2.25 million so it’s no skin off their back.

The Islanders are one of the best teams in the East. They took down the Atlantic Division champion Florida Panthers, and have one of the best players in the league in John Tavares. Even with a lot of their big pieces gone, the Islanders are talented enough to make it back to the playoffs next year, and the Chimera deal should create a snowball effect for bigger names to follow suit.

We’ll see how many more free agents the Islanders add before the end of the day.

Visit our NHL Free Agency page to stay up to date during the free agent frenzy.

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