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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Knightfall" data-source="post: 2935108" data-attributes="member: 2012">Islanders bolster blueline with PotiTSN.ca Staff7/8/2006 3:23:32 PMThe New York Islanders have signed veteran defenceman Tom Poti to a one-year contract.Last season with the Rangers, the 6-3, 210-pound Poti played 73 games and registered three goals and 20 assists for 23 points.Poti ranked first on the Rangers with 123 blocked shots and first among all team defencemen with 122 shots on goal."Tom Poti is a perfect fit for us," said Islanders Vice President and general manager Neil Smith."I spoke with him several times over the last week and I was really impressed by Tom's desire to become an Islander. He knew we had a need for a skilled defenseman and he really wanted to be a part of our team. (Islanders scout) Ken Morrow felt strongly that, at age 29, Tom was just entering his prime after some good years with the Oilers and Rangers. We are very excited that we were able to agree on a one-year deal and hope Tom will be part of our defense for years to come."Poti was originally selected by Edmonton in the third round of the 1996 NHL Entry Draft.After four seasons in Edmonton he was traded on March 19, 2002 along with Rem Murray to the Rangers for now-Islander Michael York and a fourth round draft pick.He had his best NHL season in his first season in New York. In 2002-03, Poti established career highs with 37 assists and a team-leading 48 points.</blockquote>