While they continue to double down on role players for their NHL roster, the addition of AHL scoring machine Chris Bourque is the latest sign that the New York Islanders are ramping up investment in their primary minor league affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers.
The announcement of Bourque’s addition Tuesday was paired with the signing of AHL veteran goalie Jeremy Smith as well as three returnees (captain Ben Holmstrom, Bourque’s brother, Ryan Bourque, and Connor Jones) and follows last week’s signings of major AHL scorers Matt Lorito and Mike Sislo.