Finnish forward Otto Koivula, 25, has signed a two-year contract to play for the Växjö Lakers, the SHL club announced on Thursday.

“I was very happy when the opportunity to play for such a prestigious organization as Växjö Lakers appeared,” said Koivula. “It will be fun to become part of the winning culture. The chance to compete for championships with a team that has a history of success made it an easy choice for me to come to Växjö. I am ready to start this new chapter in my hockey career with the Lakers and look forward to getting to know my teammates, coaches and amazing fans.”

A fourth-round pick of the New York Islanders in 2016, Koivula stayed in Finland for another two seasons, earning a regular roster spot with Ilves Tampere, with whom he recorded 63 points in 114 Liiga games.

Koivula has spent the past six seasons in the Islanders organization, where he played mostly with their AHL farm team in Bridgeport but also suited up for 28 NHL games, recording four assists and six penalty minutes.

At 6-foot-5 and 225 pounds, the Lakers no doubt hope that Koivula adds a physical element to the team’s game.

“Otto is a very exciting player who combines size with fine individual skills,” said Lakers sports director Henrik Evertsson. “We think that Otto’s style of play matches the Lakers’ style of play.”