Isles claim Michael Grabner; put Hilbert on waivers

 The Islanders have claimed Austrian winger Michael Grabner off waivers.

Grabner, who was waived by Florida yesterday, was selected in the first round--14th overall--in the 2006 draft by the Vancouver Canucks. He finished with five goals and 6 assists in 20 games for Vancouver last season before being dealt to the Panthers this June in the Keith Ballard deal.

"He's highly-skilled, a great skater and very creative offensively," General Manager Garth Snow said when reached by phone. "For us it was an opportunity to add a top-six talent and provide him an opportunity for that talent to flourish."

A worthwhile gamble for the Islanders, a la Rob Schremp, who was claimed off waivers from Edmonton almost exactly one year ago.

"It worked for us last year," Snow said.

"He's definitely a player we've watched over the past few years and been impressed with at certain times. This seemed like a good opportunity to see what he can do."

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The Islanders also placed winger Andy Hilbert on waivers. Hilbert, who was signed to a one-year two-way deal in August, will report to Bridgeport tomorrow assuming he clears waivers at noon.