Rhett Rakhshani Reaches Agreement with New York Islanders

I just received word from the New York Islanders that they have come to terms with forward prospect Rhett Rakhshani. 

Rakhshani, who just recently completed his collegiate hockey career with the University of Denver, has agreed to a three-year entry-level contract with the Islanders.

The 24-year-old Rakhshani, who was drafted 100th overall in the fourth round of the 2006 entry draft by the Islanders, played for four years for the Pioneers, finishing his career with 60 goals and 91 assists for 151 points in 156 games. Rakhshani averaged more than a point per game in his senior year—scoring 21 goals and 29 assists for 50 points in 41 games.

The Islanders also said that Rakhshani will report to their AHL affiliate Bridgeport Sound Tigers immediately and practice with the team tomorrow. He will make his professional debut in Bridgeport on April 3, as they take on the Portland Pirates. 

It is important to note that, although Rakhshani will be playing for Bridgeport as they battle for one of the final playoff spots in the Eastern Conference, he will be ineligible to play for the Sound Tigers if they reach the postseason, as he was not on the clear day roster—set earlier this month.

In any case, the Islanders now have another forward in the fold that they will allow to develop in the professional level. 

Rakhshani has been talked about for quite some time now. He possesses great foot speed and a nice pair of hands—something the Islanders could sorely use. 

I had a feeling this would be announced today, I spotted Rakhshani walking around with General Manager Garth Snow last night, following the Islanders' 4-3 loss to the New York Rangers. 

At least Islanders fans can take some solace in knowing their GM is still doing something behind the scenes as the season grinds to an end.