Islanders F Jesse Joensuu has signed a two year contract with HV71 of the Swedish Elite League. Because the Islanders offered him a qualifying offer, they will retain his rights. Joensuu, a 2nd round pick in 2006, had an up-and-down three years with the Islanders. Overall, he finished with 8 goals and 13 points in 60 NHL games with the Islanders from 2008-09 to 2010-11.CH: Obviously, since the Islanders retained his rights, the door isn't closed on Joensuu returning after the two years. Like we said on the podcast, Joensuu wanted his North American trial to be three years before making a decision on where he would play next. In that sense, this isn't surprising. He will get way more money and playing time playing for HV71 than in the Isles organization, who would have had him in Bridgeport for the majority of the year. Wish the best for him, as the Islanders have the option to bring him back when his contract is up.
AT: As I said on the podcast, power forwards take some time to develop. He'll probably get a lot of playing time in the SEL, so this is good for him. All the best to Jesse and I hope to see him again in 2 years.
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