Islanders website: Announced Richard Park has been signed through 2009-10.
"Richard exemplifies the type of character players we want to be New York Islanders," said general manager Garth Snow. "He's a team-first guy who plays with his heart on his sleeve and battles every shift."
"To say I'm happy would be an understatement," said Park. "Since the first day of training camp last year, I was determined to make the most of the chance Garth Snow and Ted Nolan gave me. I love this franchise. My family has really made a home on Long Island. This is incredible news for us. I'm very appreciative of the opportunity to stay with the Islanders for a long time."
NYI Fan Central Comments:
Do not know the terms yet of the contract, but unlike Radek Martinek who has standout skills in a primary role this is not a player you give this kind of extension to because it limits your options. Park is a very hard worker and gives his best and more but you cannot lock up a fourth line center for this long when that spot should be reseved for a prospect. Now they have Bates for two more years and Park for this year and two more. Different positions but who has best potential to do more, Park or Tambellini/Nielsen, Comeau, Colliton? What does this mean for Ben Walter who is a center who had not gotten much of an NHL look in Boston.
Like Richard Park, but he's not an impact player and in this league you have to keep your options open.