The New York Islanders have signed forward Matias Maccelli to a one-year contract with an average annual value of $2.25 million and defenseman Matthew Kessel to a one-year deal worth $850,000, as the NHL free agency period opened. The signings mark the team's primary moves on a day expected to be relatively quiet for the franchise.
Maccelli, a 25-year-old winger, spent last season with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he recorded 14 goals and 39 points. He was a fourth-round pick in the 2019 NHL Entry Draft. Maccelli's contract with the Maple Leafs was not extended, as he did not receive a qualifying offer of $4.1 million. During his time with Toronto, he had opportunities to play on the right side of Auston Matthews but also experienced periods as a healthy scratch.
Maccelli's addition comes as Islanders captain Anders Lee is testing the free agent market, potentially creating a need for additional forwards on the roster. The winger has also previously played for the Arizona Coyotes and the Ontario Hockey League's North Bay Battalion.
In the 2023-24 season, Maccelli achieved career-best numbers with 17 goals and 57 points. He has a left-handed shot.
The Islanders also acquired defenseman Matthew Kessel, a right-handed shot, who has played his entire career with the St. Louis Blues. Kessel's contract details were reported by Elliotte Friedman.
