Tony DeAngelo is making headlines once again as he returns to the NHL, having signed a contract with the New York Islanders for the remainder of the 2024-25 season. The announcement, made on Friday, marks a significant moment for the 29-year-old defenseman, who inked a deal at the league minimum salary of $775,000, proportionate to the remaining games in the season. After a stint in Russia’s KHL with SKA Saint Petersburg, where he accumulated 32 points in just 34 games, DeAngelo’s journey back to North America embodies the unpredictable nature of professional sports.
DeAngelo’s departure from the KHL was unexpected but understandable; SKA cited “family considerations” in North America as the reason for mutual termination of his contract on January 14. This decision paved the way for his return to the NHL, a league he has vast experience in but also one that has not been without its controversies surrounding his career. Even as he prepares for a potential debut with the Islanders, he must first clear waivers, a procedural step that reflects both the unpredictability and the bureaucracy of the NHL.
The Islanders are in dire need of offensive support from the blue line, particularly with the recent injury to Noah Dobson, who has garnered 24 points in 46 games this season. Dobson’s lower-body injury is expected to sideline him for at least a few weeks, creating an immediate opening for DeAngelo to step in. While he is recognized as an offensive-minded defenseman, amassing 210 points in 371 NHL games over his career, the question remains whether he can adapt quickly enough to make an impact.
However, DeAngelo’s career has been marred by off-ice controversies and divisive public behavior. After being drafted 19th overall by the Tampa Bay Lightning in 2014, he faced challenges that included trades and suspensions stemming from violations of policies regarding abuse and diversity. His tenure has seen him play for five different teams, each move shedding light on the complexities of his character both as a player and as a public figure. The tumultuous end to his time with the New York Rangers, culminating in an altercation with teammate Alexandar Georgiev, is a stark reminder of how quickly fortunes can change in the NHL.
DeAngelo’s outspoken views on topics like politics and the COVID-19 pandemic have placed him at the center of polarizing debates among fans. Many appreciate his candor, while others question his conduct in a sport known for its traditional values. His time with the Philadelphia Flyers included an attempt to return to the Hurricanes which failed due to a violation of the collective bargaining agreement, showing how off-ice behavior can intertwine with business decisions in the NHL.
As he dons the Islanders’ colors, DeAngelo faces a moment of opportunity mixed with scrutiny. Whether he can navigate the complexities of being a polarizing figure while contributing positively to the team remains to be seen. With his past experiences both