Former Rangers blueliner becomes NY Islanders affiliate's first hometown signing

Every expansion team needs a player who immediately gives fans someone to rally around. It's smart business after all! For the Hamilton Hammers, that player is Brandon Scanlin.

The New York Islanders' new American Hockey League affiliate announced the signing of the Hamilton native to a one-year AHL contract, making Scanlin the first hometown player to join the franchise ahead of its inaugural season.

While Scanlin won't arrive with NHL or top prospect star power, he brings exactly what a first-year AHL team needs: experience, leadership and local roots. The 27-year-old defenseman spent the past five seasons in the New York Rangers organization, appearing in 255 games with the Hartford Wolf Pack. During that time, he established himself as a dependable stay-at-home defenseman capable of chipping in offensively, totaling 24 goals and 57 points.

His perseverance was rewarded during the 2023-24 season when he earned his first NHL call-up, skating in his lone career game with the Rangers.

Now, he'll look to do the same within the Islanders organization.

At 6-foot-3 and 223 pounds, Scanlin immediately adds size and stability to Hamilton's blue line while providing a veteran presence for what is expected to be a young roster featuring several Islanders prospects.

The hometown connection only makes the signing more meaningful. Scanlin grew up in Hamilton before starring collegiately at the University of Nebraska Omaha, where he recorded 62 points in 98 games and earned both NCHC All-Rookie Team honors and an Honorable Mention All-Star selection.

For Hamilton hockey fans, he'll be one of their own wearing the Hammers crest from Day 1.

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