New York Islanders Player Bio: Marek Zidlicky

The Islanders continued their busy pre-preason moves on Friday by signing veteran defenceman Marek Zidlicky to a one-year contract. They finally filled up some much needed depth on defence and answered my call to sign a seventh defenceman.

Many fans are familiar with Zidlicky from his days with the New Jersey Devils, but let’s take a look at what he brings to the table.

Name: Marek Zidlicky

Position: Defenceman

Age: 38

Nationality: Czech Republic

Drafted: 176th overall in 2001 (New York Rangers)

Similar Style of Play To: Lubomir Visnovsky

Previous Teams: Nashville Predators, Minnesota Wild, New Jersey Devils, Detroit Red Wings

Best Season: In his sophomore season in 2005-06, he scored 49 points in only 67 games for the Nashville Predators. Zidlicky and the Predators had high hopes going into the playoffs, however, he suffered a concussion in the first round after getting checked while playing the Red Wings.

Interesting Fact: After being unable to strike a deal with the Rangers, Zidlicky, who had yet to play an NHL game, went back to Finland to play with HIFK. He was considered one of the best players in the world outside of the NHL before signing with the Predators a couple seasons later.

What he Brings to the Table: Zidlicky is a power play specialist and is a high-scoring defenceman. However, last season was pretty disappointing from an offensive viewpoint because he only scored 33 points and was not that helpful for the Red Wings in the playoffs. He also has almost 800 games of NHL experience, which is extremely important for the Islanders’ young defence.

Where He Fits on the Team: Zidlicky will be either the sixth or seventh defenceman. One of the reasons why he was brought on board was probably to help bring more competition for Brian Strait, Ryan Pulock, and Scott Mayfield. The four of them will battle for the sixth and seventh spots. Zidlicky’s playing time will be greatly effective by how much they need him on the powerplay. He is an asset just purely based on the fact he is a powerplay specialist.

Islanders fans are you happy with this signing? I think it was something that had to be done. We need more depth at the back end and this guy is very offensively inclined, which could help if needed.

Also check out: Eyes Win Big in Grabner Trade

Next: New York Islanders Player Awards Predictions

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