The New York Islanders have strengthened their goaltending position by signing Josh Kotai to a two-year entry-level contract. This development took place on a Tuesday, marking a significant step in Kotai’s hockey career.
Josh Kotai’s Background
At 23 years old, Kotai has just completed his third season at Augustana University. His performance was stellar, boasting a .938 save percentage along with five shutouts and a record of 20 wins, 11 losses, and 4 overtime losses. Unfortunately, Augustana’s hockey team was recently eliminated in the playoffs by St. Thomas and did not qualify for the upcoming NCAA tournament.
A College Career Highlighted by Achievements
Kotai was a standout player in college hockey, earning notable accolades. He was named both the CCHA Player of the Year and Goaltender of the Year, and he received First-Team All-CCHA honors. Over his college career, he compiled an impressive overall record of 39 wins, 30 losses, and 9 overtime losses, with eight shutouts and a .931 save percentage.
Junior League Experience
Prior to his tenure in the NCAA, Kotai played in various junior leagues. In the Saskatchewan Junior Hockey League during the 2022-23 season, he posted a remarkable 32-4-3 record, secured three shutouts, and achieved a .935 save percentage, helping his team capture a league title.
Family and Future in Professional Hockey
Josh Kotai is the son of Alex Kotai, who served as an emergency backup for the Abbotsford Canucks in the AHL this season. As he embarks on his professional career, Kotai is expected to play in either the AHL or ECHL next season.
Changes in Islanders’ Goaltending Roster
The signing of Kotai comes at a crucial time, with the Islanders facing the potential departure of four goaltenders this summer. David Rittich, Marcus Hogberg, Henrik Tikkanen, and Tristan Lennox are all set to become free agents and will require new contracts.
Further Developments in Professional Hockey
Another significant note is Dmitri Gazmin’s standout performance in the KHL this season. However, he is under contract with CSKA Moscow until 2028. Additionally, the Islanders’ AHL affiliate, the Bridgeport Islanders, is scheduled to relocate to Hamilton for the 2026-27 season. This team has been based in Bridgeport since 2001, initially known as the Bridgeport Sound Tigers before being renamed in 2021. Hamilton has not hosted an AHL team since 2015 when the Bulldogs moved to St. John’s, Newfoundland, and became the St. John’s IceCaps.
