Dynamic 2020 All-Star Winger Signs with the Islanders
Following an offensive reemergent season in 2023-24, which saw Anthony Duclair score 24 goals in 73 games played, the 13-year winger entered free agency looking to secure a long-term contract for himself. After being traded from the San Jose Sharks to the Tampa Bay Lightning at the trade deadline last season, Duclair had the opportunity to return to playoff hockey for the first time in two seasons. With the Lightning, Duclair recorded two assists and two points in their first-round series against the Florida Panthers, which saw Tampa Bay getting eliminated in five games. With hopes of building off his impressive 2023-24 campaign, Duclair has found his new home. Now, the New York Islanders have signed Duclair to a four-year deal for $14 million.
Duclair started his professional career with the New York Rangers after signing an entry-level contract in 2014. Prior to the NHL, Duclair jumped on the radar of teams after three seasons with the Quebec Remparts in the Quebec Major Junior Hockey League, where Duclair recorded 116 goals, 133 assists, and 249 points in 203 games played. Since joining the NHL, Duclair has been an up-and-down offensive player as he has recorded six seasons of 10 goals or less. However, when Duclair is clicking on all cylinders, the 2020 All-Star has the potential to put in productive numbers. During his career-best offensive season with the Panthers in 2021-22, Duclair tallied 31 goals, 27 assists, and 58 points in 74 games played. In his NHL career, Duclair has recorded 146 goals, 157 assists, 303 points, and 38 power-play goals in 563 games played.
Duclair, who is 28 years old, is about to embark on a pivotal phase of his career in which he hopes to become a reliable top-six forward in the NHL. He has the ability to succeed in a key role and make an instant impact on the Islanders’ roster with his skill set and perseverance. Duclair has seen many obstacles and disappointments over his NHL career, but his fortitude and tenacity have always shown, helping him get through hardship and equipping him for the chances that lie ahead. With the addition of Duclair to their roster, the Islanders enter the 2024-25 season looking to find success and have a shot at hoisting the Stanley Cup next summer.
