The New York Islanders are keeping one of their organizational forwards in the fold, announcing Wednesday that Joey Larson has signed a two-year, two-way contract.
The 25-year-old winger took a significant step forward during his first full professional season with the Bridgeport Islanders in 2025-26. Larson finished with 17 goals and 11 assists for 28 points in 63 games, with his 17 goals ranking third on the team.
The new contract rewards a player who has steadily climbed the Islanders' development ladder since leaving the college ranks. Larson made his professional debut late in the 2024-25 season, appearing in six games with Bridgeport and making an immediate impression with two goals and one assist. He carried that momentum into his first full AHL season.
Long before his collegiate success, Larson was recognized as Michigan's top high school player, winning the prestigious "Mr. Hockey" Award in 2019 at Hartland High School. Before turning pro, Larson enjoyed a successful NCAA career split between Northern Michigan and Michigan State. After earning CCHA All-Rookie Team honors with the Wildcats in 2022-23, he transferred to the Spartans, where he became an important piece of one of college hockey's top programs.
#Isles News: The New York Islanders announced today that forward Joey Larson has signed a two-year, two-way (NHL/AHL) contract.
— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) July 22, 2026
Larson helped Michigan State capture consecutive Big Ten championships in 2024 and 2025 while leading the Spartans with 16 goals during the 2023-24 season. He wrapped up his collegiate career with 39 goals and 44 assists for 83 points in 111 games, building a reputation as a dependable two-way winger capable of contributing in every situation.
