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New York Islanders Top 10 Centers In Franchise History

AMPA, FL - JANUARY 27: John Tavares #91 of the New York Islanders looks on during the Enterprise NHL Fastest Skater during the 2018 GEICO NHL All-Star Skills Competition at Amalie Arena on January 27, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)
AMPA, FL - JANUARY 27: John Tavares #91 of the New York Islanders looks on during the Enterprise NHL Fastest Skater during the 2018 GEICO NHL All-Star Skills Competition at Amalie Arena on January 27, 2018 in Tampa, Florida. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images) /
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NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 17: Frans Nielsen
NEW YORK, NEW YORK – APRIL 17: Frans Nielsen /

Frans Nielsen

From 2006-2007 to the end of the 2015-2016 period Frans Nielsen was an important piece to the New York Islanders. He was never the biggest piece, but he was certainly an important role player on this team.

In 606 games over the course of 10 years with the Isles, he put up 349 points (119 goals, 230 assists). He was a fantastic two-way player for the Islanders and a shootout specialist, something the Islanders usually struggle with.

Nielsen’s best year came in a year in which John Tavares was injured. In 2013-2014 Nielsen and Okposo both stepped up big in the absence of Tavares.

He finished the season with a career-high of 58 points (25 goals, 33 assists). He was a key reason why the Islanders were able to win their first playoff series in 23 years.

After the 2016 season, Frans cashed in on a huge payday with the Detroit Red Wings. He was signed to a six-year $31.5 million contract.

The Islanders still have yet to find a replacement for Frans Nielsen, a defensively responsible center with an offensive upside. He would certainly fit in nicely on the Isles third line right about now.

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