The New York Islanders announced a new option at center with the signing of Jan Kovar, a 28-year-old Czech who will be making the jump from the KHL.
It’s a one-year, reportedly for $2 million — so great flexibility for both parties, and a great opportunity for Kovar to prove himself in the NHL. The Islanders’ center depth took a major hit with the free agency departure of John Tavares. While Mathew Barzal can step into that role, that leaves a major gap behind him on the depth chart.
Kovar has been a point a game player for Metallurg Magnitogorsk in the KHL (286 points in 285 games), and was on a couple of playoff champion squads (with 91 points in 83 playoff games).