JG Pageau determined to prove he is worth the NY Islanders three year extension

For Jean-Gabriel Pageau, the new contract isn’t just security — it’s responsibility. After signing a three-year extension with the New York Islanders, Pageau made it clear his focus isn’t on comfort, but on proving he earned it. “I want to show that I deserve that deal,” Pageau said. “And show my teammates how much it means to me to be part of this group.”

That mindset comes after a season that ended in frustration. The Islanders fell short of the playoffs, something Pageau feels more acutely at this stage of his career. “You look at the amount of years you still have… and the chance to be in the playoffs… that’s one less year,” he said. “That’s frustrating.” Instead of pointing fingers, Pageau is turning inward. “Everyone just needs to look at themselves in the mirror,” he said. “See what they could have done better. That’s what I’m going to do.”

That self-evaluation will define his offseason. Pageau plans to return in top form, ready to contribute more in all situations. “I’m going to make sure I come back in full shape, ready to roll,” he said. Despite the disappointment, Pageau sees reason for optimism. He pointed to the growth of younger players like Simon Holmstrom and Matthew Schaefer as signs of where the team is headed. “There’s a lot of excitement… a lot of young guys took big steps,” he said.

Pageau also expressed confidence in the structure brought in by head coach Peter DeBoer, noting the emphasis on accountability and detail. “It’s all constructive… all to make the team better,” he said. For Pageau, the extension isn’t the finish line — it’s a starting point. And now, the focus is simple: prove it.

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