Islanders Sign Matt Martin to Shocking Extension!

The New York Islanders have surprised the hockey world as the team has announced they have signed enforcer Matt Martin to a four-year contract extension.

Further to @FriedgeHNIC post on Matt Martin's surprising new deal with #Isles:

Hearing it's four years in the $1.5-million AAV range. Certainly would keep MM here for the rest of his NHL career.

— Arthur Staple (@StapeAthletic) January 5, 2021

While Martin is beloved by his teammates and plays his role on Long Islander better than most, the curious notion here is the fact the team has zero funds to sign Mathew Barzal to a contract extension, meanwhile they are worried about locking up their fourth-liners.

Lou Lamoriello has always done things his way, and it shouldn't shock you if this Barzal hold out drags on until the first week of February, right to the deadline.

Imagine giving Matt Martin a four year contract extension with a cap hit of $1.5 million when you don’t have the cap space to sign friggin Mat Barzal.

Executive of the year, indeed.

— Nick Richard (@_NickRichard) January 5, 2021

As for Martin, last season the rugged winger had eight points in 55 games and 40 penalty minutes. He managed to chip in with five more goals in the playoffs and played an integral role for the team. His Islanders teammates know they're protected with Martin on their side, so it's great to see one of the good guys get rewarded with some job security.

Photo credit: Danny Murphy/Icon Sportswire 

Matt Martin, reportedly signing 4x$1.5M with the Isles, is a defence-only fourth liner who can forecheck but otherwise offers nothing offensively. Not typically the type of player you lock up until they're 35. #Isles pic.twitter.com/Sad8E0H0af

— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) January 5, 2021