Free agency ’16

All reports are that the New York Islanders’ big three free agents aren’t returning. That’s a blow in many ways, but it’s a particular blow to the group that was, to borrow a phrase, Born in Bridgeport. The top three players in New York Islanders games played among those who started their North American pro careers in here (leaving out Josh Bailey, Radek Martinek and Trent Hunter)? (1) Frans Nielsen, 606; (2) Kyle Okposo, 529; (3) Matt Martin, 438.

They’ll be missed.

It’s rather rude of the NHL to start free agency as I’m trying to finish that project I’ve been writing, but what can you do. We’ll keep one eye on it.

The lists are up, those signed and those now free. The team looks young. We expect a few AHL re-signings; the team’s refusal to confirm is all that’s giving me pause about spitting five names out. We’ll see what happens today.

Missouri promoted John-Scott Dickson to head coach yesterday, replacing Richard Matvichuk, who took a job in the Western League a few weeks ago. The Rangers this morning announced they’ve promoted Jeff Beukeboom to NHL assistant; he’d been in Hartford.

Meanwhile: Happy Canada Day.

1:03: The Big Club announced that it has signed Jason Chimera, and it was widely reported at noon that Andrew Ladd is its big-ticket signing.

1:15: Wilkes-Barre/Scranton’s defensive depth, courtesy of Mike O’Brien, after re-signing Steve Oleksy, bringing back David Warsofsky and picking up Cameron Gaunce.

1:54: John Hoven, who earlier reported Andy Miele to Philadelphia, reports that Sean Backman is staying with Ontario.

2:00: Michael Grabner signs with the Rangers.

3:20: The Flyers’ official on Miele also includes Paul Carey and Will O’Neill.

3:37: The Big Three are all gone, officially. Okposo to the Sabres, Nielsen to the Red Wings, and now Martin to the Leafs.

4:54: The Rangers announce they’ve agreed to terms with Westport’s Michael Paliotta, Calder Cup champion. I assume this means that old buddy Ryan Haggerty will sign with Columbus, since they’ve been following each other in circles.

5:10: The Bruins announced that Simsbury’s Tommy Cross will return, among other signings.

5:30: Arthur Staple says Shane Prince has re-upped with the Islanders. Micheal Haley meanwhile re-signs with San Jose.

6:15: Colorado announces it has signed a host of players, including Joe Whitney.

10:15: Never really wrapped the day, but that looks like it’s about it. The Big Club certainly seems to be done for the moment. We’ll see what Day 2 brings tomorrow.

Michael Fornabaio