Michigan State's Joey Larson moves the puck against Minnesota during the second period on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at Munn Arena in East Lansing.

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Islanders Sign Joey Larson to Entry-Level Contract

New York Islanders add forward Joey Larson on a two-year deal, set to join AHL Bridgeport for the remainder of the season.

Michigan State's Joey Larson moves the puck against Minnesota during the second period on Saturday, Jan. 25, 2025, at Munn Arena in East Lansing.

The New York Islanders have taken a chance on an under-the-radar talent, signing right-winger Joey Larson to a one-year entry-level contract for the 2024-25 season. While it remains uncertain whether he will immediately join the AHL’s Bridgeport Islanders, this signing marks a significant step for the 24-year-old forward as he transitions to the professional level.

Larson’s journey to the NHL is far from conventional. Unlike most prospects who enter the league through the draft in their early years, Larson went undrafted and followed a much longer path to reach this point. His development has been slower compared to his peers, but that hasn’t stopped him from making an impact on the ice. Standing at 6’1” and 196 pounds, he brings size and skill, attributes that helped him carve out a productive collegiate career.

The New York Islanders have signed Michigan State F Joey Larson to a one-year entry level contract beginning in the 25-26 season.

Larson, an undrafted free agent, played in 75 games over two seasons with Michigan State, where he tallied 26 goals and 56 points. #Undisclosed… pic.twitter.com/pc57zECVF3
— Top Shelf Dusters (@TopShelfDusters) March 31, 2025

Originally eligible for the 2019 NHL Draft, Larson’s early career saw him playing in lower-tier leagues, including the North American Hockey League (NAHL), as late as 2020-21. During that time, most of his draft-eligible peers were already competing in major junior leagues, NCAA hockey, or even professional leagues in Europe. However, Larson didn’t let his delayed trajectory deter him. He steadily progressed and ultimately made a name for himself in the NCAA.

Larson began his college career at Northern Michigan before transferring to Michigan State, where he spent the last two seasons. Over his three-year collegiate career, he tallied 83 points (39 goals, 44 assists) in 111 NCAA games. His best season came in 2023-24, when he recorded 16 goals and 32 points in 38 games for Michigan State. However, his production dipped slightly this past season, as he posted 24 points (10 goals, 14 assists) in 37 games. Despite the drop, he remained a key player for the Spartans and showcased his offensive potential.

Also Read: Capitals Sign David Gucciardi to Entry-Level Contract

What makes Larson’s signing interesting is that other college free agents with even higher production, such as Hobey Baker finalist Liam McLinskey, have had to settle for AHL contracts rather than NHL deals. That raises some eyebrows, but it also highlights the Islanders’ belief in Larson’s abilities and potential to adapt to the pro game.

For the Islanders, this is a low-risk move. If Larson can adjust to the professional level and prove himself in Bridgeport, he could develop into a valuable asset. While the odds may be against him, his determination and unique path suggest he’s willing to put in the work to make the most of this opportunity.

Image Nick King/Lansing State Journal / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

Joey Larson

New York Islanders

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Anamika Shrivastava

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