As per a report from TSN’s Pierre LeBrun, he’s hearing that the New York Islanders are finalizing a deal with UFA netminder Cory Schneider. The recently bought out goaltender by the New Jersey Devils, Schneider has history with Isles GM Lou Lamoriello and while the team doesn’t necessarily need a another NHL tender, they could use a third-string guy or someone who can play in the AHL. Either way, it’s great to see Schneider, 34, get a chance to continue his career.
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LeBrun followed up his initial report on Monday morning saying, “Once the Isles finalize the contract with Cory Schneider, it will be for one year, $700k.”
The deal represents a massive pay cut for the goaltender but it was unlikely Schneider had a ton of options coming into free agency. After undergoing hip surgery in May, 2018, he’s not been the same netminder. Once considered an elite NHL starter, his game completely fell off a cliff in New Jersey and he spent most of last season in the AHL. It is expected this deal with the Islanders will include a two-way clause so that he can get playing time with Brideport Sound, but he could work his way back into the lineup if the Islanders make another move or injuries play a factor.
This Could Be a Good Fit
Rob Taub of the New York Post noted that the Islanders organization might be the perfect landing spot for Schneider. He explains:
Mitch Korn and Piero Greco helped re-establish Thomas Greiss and to a sense helped evolve Robin Lehner into a top-5 goalie in this league. Will be interesting to see what they can do with Cory Schneider, who is looking to rebound his career after the last few years.
Congratulations to Cory for getting another look in the NHL. We’re pulling for you.
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