Tony DeAngelo has made headlines once again, this time by signing with the New York Islanders for the remainder of the 2024-25 NHL season. Announced on Friday, this contract is set at the league minimum salary of $775,000, which will be prorated for the remaining games. This marks a notable return for the 29-year-old defenseman, who began the season with SKA Saint Petersburg in Russia’s KHL. His journey to this moment was not straightforward; after struggling to secure an NHL spot during the offseason, he found himself overseas but managed to impress with 32 points in 34 games before a mutual contract termination with SKA due to family reasons.
The timing of DeAngelo’s signing is crucial for the Islanders, who recently suffered a significant blow with the loss of Noah Dobson. The skilled offensive defenseman is currently sidelined with a lower-body injury, which has left a void in the team’s lineup. Dobson, who had been a key contributor with 24 points in 46 games, is now listed as week-to-week, creating an immediate need for reinforcements on the blueline. DeAngelo’s offensive prowess, with a career total of 210 points in 371 NHL games, makes him a valuable asset as the Islanders navigate this challenging period.
This current stint with the Islanders marks the fifth team in DeAngelo’s NHL career, a testament to his turbulent path through professional hockey. Drafted 19th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2014, he was quickly traded to the Arizona Coyotes just two years later. His most productive stretch came during his tenure with the New York Rangers, where he not only showcased his offensive capabilities but also faced significant scrutiny, culminating in a well-publicized altercation with goalie Alexandar Georgiev in early 2021 that marked the end of his time in New York.
After a brief stint with the Carolina Hurricanes, which ended with a buyout from the Philadelphia Flyers, DeAngelo returned to the Hurricanes for the 2023-24 season, yet struggled to find consistent ice time. His outspoken personality has stirred controversy, often polarizing fan opinions on his character and behavior off the ice—issues that seem to linger like a shadow over his undeniable talent.
DeAngelo’s duality as a talented player and a divisive figure cannot be ignored. His forthright opinions on politics and the COVID-19 pandemic on social media have not only ignited debates among fans but have also adversely impacted his professional reputation. His earlier suspensions during his junior hockey days for breaches of the Ontario Hockey League’s abuse and diversity policy further complicate the public’s perception of him.
As he embarks on this latest chapter with the Islanders, many will be watching closely—not only for his performance on the ice but also for how his controversial past continues to shape his career. Will DeAngelo embrace this opportunity to turn the page, or will he remain a polarizing figure in the sport? Only time will tell if he can capitalize on this second chance in New York.
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