Cautious Islanders sign center Reasoner

Unlike other teams willing to throw sizable amounts of money at a thin class of unrestricted free agents, the Islanders took a more modest approach Friday on the first day of free agency.

The signing of veteran center Marty Reasoner to a two-year deal worth $2.7 million was not a headline-maker in comparison to the bold moves made by Philadelphia and Buffalo or Florida's big spending, but it was a safe bet.

The 34-year-old Reasoner, who had 14 goals and 18 assists in 82 games for the Panthers last season, is a sturdy veteran with good checking ability and a reasonable price tag.

For Islanders general manager Garth Snow, who struck out trying to sign top-shelf defenseman Christian Ehrhoff earlier this week, it was a sound decision.

"We feel he's a player that can contribute in many different ways," Snow said. "He's definitely a durable player who will bring a veteran presence in our locker room."

The Islanders also announced the signing of Russian prospect Kirill Kabanov to a three-year entry-level deal. The 18-year-old was a third-round pick in 2010.