The New York Islanders announced that they have signed veteran defenseman Brendan Witt to a two-year contract extension worth $6 million. The deal will keep the 33-year-old Humboldt, Saskatchewan, native on Long Island through the end of the 2010-11 season.

Islanders' GM, Garth Snow, was pleased with the deal. "Over the last two seasons, Brendan has been a warrior for us on the ice and a great leader off the ice," Snow explained. "We're thrilled to keep him in an Islanders uniform."

Witt signed with the Islanders prior to the 2006-07 season as a free agent. In 140 games with New York, Witt has scored three goals and added 18 assists. He was also assessed 182 penalty minutes. For his career, Witt has 23 goals, 83 assists and 1,285 penalty minutes in 783 games with the Capitals, Predators and Islanders.

"My family and I are excited to stay on Long Island for the next three years," Witt said in a statement released by the club. "We love the community and our fans, and I couldn't be happier. I want to thank the Islanders organization and the fans for making Long Island our home."

Witt's primary role with the Islanders has been to shut down the top players on opposing teams. He is known for his strong play in his own zone and the physical element he brings to the game. Witt has also been a strong leader in the locker room, helping to mentor the Isles' young defense corps which includes Bruno Gervais and Chris Campoli.

The Washington Capitals selected Witt with their first round selection (11th overall) in the 1993 NHL entry draft. He joined the Caps as a rookie in 1995 and helped Washington reach the Stanley Cup finals in 1998. In 41 career playoff contests, Witt has four goals and one assist.

Notes

The Islanders have signed several free agents to one-year, two-way contracts to add depth to their organization. Defenseman Joe Callahan signed a one-year deal. The former Yale University star spent last season with the Portland Pirates of the AHL. The Isles also added two AHL All-Stars from last season, center Mike Iggulden (Worcester) and defenseman Brett Skinner who was with Portland in 2007-08. New York also inked forwards Kurtis McLean and Mitch Fritz, defenseman Chris Lee and goaltender Peter Mannino to contracts.