NHL Trades 2013: Islanders Sign Josh Bailey To Five-Year $16.5 MIllion Deal

The NHL's New York Islanders and Josh Bailey reached an agreement on a five-year contract on Monday.

The five-year deal will pay Bailey $16.5 million, an average of $3.3 million per year.

"Obviously I'm very excited," Bailey said of being extended for five years. "I have to thank the organization - [owner] Charles Wang and [general manager] Garth Snow, as well as the whole coaching staff - for believing in me and committing to me for another five years. It's a really special, incredible feeling."

"Josh has become an important member of the young core of the players we have in our dressing room," Snow said. "We're excited to come to terms with him on a deal that will ensure he is a member of this team as we solidify ourselves as consistent playoff contenders."

Bailey becomes the second highest paid forward on the club behind superstar and Hart Trophy nominee John Tavares. The center-turned-winger had his finest season with the Islanders as he averaged 0.5 points per game throughout the shortened season. He also got his first chance to play in the playoffs and was slotted on the top line alongside Tavares.

"I think everyone who was a part of that, whether it was the players or the fans, could feel that energy at the Coliseum," Bailey said. "It was nice to give the fans something to cheer about. We certainly didn't accomplish anywhere near our goal, but I think being a part of that and seeing what it could be like, certainly it was a great feeling and something we want a lot more of going forward."

Bailey is also one of nine players that are practically assured a spot with the club when the team makes its move to Brooklyn during the 2015-16 season. Other players signed that far include Tavares, Michael Grabner, Kyle Okposo, Cal Clutterbuck, Frans Nielsen, Matt Martin, Travis Hamonic, and Brian Strait.

"The players know (the move to Barclays Center) is happening," Bailey said. "And we've still got another two seasons at the Coliseum. I love living on Long Island and I love the people. It's home to me now. I'm certainly excited for everything that's to come in the next five years."

Bailey was drafted ninth overall in the 2008 entry draft and has played with the club since the 2008-09 season. He has scored 139 points in 329 career NHL games.