Logan Stanley signs one-year deal with Eastern Conference franchise
Photo credit: Timothy T. Ludwig-Imagn Images
The New York Islanders bolstered their defensive depth on Sunday, signing free agent Logan Stanley to a one-year contract worth a reported $1.5 million cap hit for the 2026-27 season, according to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman.
Stanley, 28, arrives after a career year split between the Winnipeg Jets and Buffalo Sabres, posting nine goals and 17 assists for 26 points across 76 games.
The towering 6-foot-7, 231-pound blueliner was dealt to Buffalo at the 2026 trade deadline alongside Luke Schenn in a package that sent Jacob Bryson, Isak Rosen and two draft picks back to Winnipeg.
He appeared in eight playoff games with the Sabres before their run ended against Montreal.
Originally the 18th overall pick by Winnipeg in the 2016 NHL Draft, Stanley has totaled 62 points across 278 career regular-season games.
His game centers on physicality and reach rather than pure offense, traits new head coach Peter DeBoer may lean on as the Islanders look to snap a two-year playoff drought.
What the Move Means for New York's Defense
Stanley slots in as a depth option behind reigning Calder Trophy winner Matthew Schaefer and puck-mover Tony DeAngelo, giving the Islanders a stay-at-home presence they lacked last season.
The signing coincided with New York reassigning young defensemen Kashawn Aitcheson and Isaiah George to the AHL, clearing a roster spot just days before opening night.
Timing Adds Pressure
Because the deal came together so close to the season opener, Stanley will make his Islanders debut without any preseason reps in the lineup.
New York opens its campaign Wednesday on the road against the Toronto Maple Leafs.
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