Uniondale, NY -- Islanders re-sign Jason Blake

The New York Islanders have signed forward Jason Blake to a three-year contract. Financial details were not released, but the signing avoids an arbitration hearing.

Blake was the fourth-leading scorer for the Islanders last season with 47 points and led the club with four shorthanded goals. He finished with 22 goals overall and added 25 assists in 75 games.

"Jason wanted to remain an Islander for a long time and we wanted to keep Jason an Islander for a long time," said general manager Mike Milbury. "Both sides worked hard at putting together something fair. Everyone's delighted we were able to keep him for at least three more years and hopefully beyond. Jason is undoubtedly a big part of the heart and soul of our franchise."

The Islanders acquired Blake from the Los Angeles Kings on January 3, 2001 in exchange for a mid-round draft pick.

The 30-year-old native of Minnesota has 66 goals and 94 assists for 160 points in 350 NHL games.

"My family and I are so happy to know we're going to be on the Island for a long time," said Blake. "The Islanders are the team that acquired me, believed in me, gave me a chance to prove what I can do. This is the team I want to win a Stanley Cup with."

Blake scored his first two career playoff goals in last spring's first-round loss to eventual Stanley Cup champion Tampa Bay. He will play for Team USA in the World Cup of Hockey later this month.