The New York Islanders have secured winger Simon Holmstrom with a two-year contract, featuring a cap hit of $3.625 million, keeping him with the team through the 2026-27 season as a restricted free agent (RFA). Holmstrom’s contract renewal comes after a breakthrough year in the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/hockey/nhl/”>NHL, signaling the Islanders’ faith in his continued development.
Holmstrom’s Rise: From Draft Pick to Key Contributor
Originally selected 23rd overall by the Islanders, Simon Holmstrom made his NHL debut during the 2022-23 season. After a modest start with nine points in 50 games, the 24-year-old Swede markedly improved, elevating to a top-six forward role and finishing the season with an impressive 20 goals and 45 points. Standing 6-foot-2 and weighing 214 pounds, Holmstrom showed growing physicality and scoring ability, rewarding the Islanders’ trust in his abilities.
Development Path and International Experience
Before becoming an NHL regular, Holmstrom spent significant time developing in the AHL with the Bridgeport Islanders. In the 2021-22 campaign, he tallied 43 points across 68 games, contributing to a total of 70 points over 154 AHL contests during four seasons. His steady progress led to 79 points accumulated over 200 NHL games so far. Internationally, Holmstrom has represented Sweden at major junior tournaments, winning gold at the 2019 U-18 World Championship with six points in seven games, and participating in the 2021 World Juniors.
Islanders’ Roster Moves and Team Outlook
With over $3.5 million in cap space projected, the Islanders have made several roster moves recently, signing players like Ethan Bear, David Rittich, Tony DeAngelo, and Jonathan Drouin, along with additional AHL contracts. However, the club still faces decisions on several RFAs, including Emil Heineman, Maxim Tsyplakov, Marc Gatcomb, Ruslan Iskhakov, and Adam Beckman. Despite missing the playoffs by finishing sixth in the Metropolitan Division this past season, the Islanders showed promise, especially after selecting defenseman Matthew Schaefer with the first overall pick in the latest NHL Draft.
Looking Ahead for Holmstrom and the Islanders
Simon Holmstrom’s contract extension signals the Islanders’ commitment to building around their young talent following a challenging season. As Holmstrom continues to mature into an impactful top-six winger, his development will be central to the team’s efforts to return to playoff contention and strengthen their lineup in the coming years.