Maxim Tsyplakov On Choosing Islanders & What He Brings To Team

Maxim Tsyplakov spoke after day one of rookie camp about why he chose to sign with the New York Islanders and what his skillsets are.

EAST MEADOW, NY -- Maxim Tsyplakov is eager to begin his NHL career since signing a one-year entry-level deal with the New York Islanders back in May. 

The 25-year-old was the top available European free agent this summer after scoring 31 goals with 16 assists for 47 goals in 65 games for the KHL's Spartak.

There were many teams lining up to acquire his skillset, but he ultimately chose Long Island. 

"I don't look at money," Tsyplakov said. "I look at my opportunity where I can play -- power play, penalty kill -- and I talk with Lou (Lamoriello) and Patrick (Roy). 

"It's a good opportunity for me. Big chance. I want to play hockey in big league, and I want to work with Patrick."

Growing up in Russia, Tsyplakov watched the NHL from an early age, watching Roy and playing the NHL video game on PlayStation. 

While the Islanders may have offered more of an opportunity than other teams, having a Russian base, if you will, in the locker room certainly played a part. 

"I talked with Sorokin and Romanov (before signing)," Tsyplakov said. "I met Romanov in Moscow right after I signed my contract. It was a good talk with me and my wife.

"All guys, all New York Islanders, help me. Sorokin, Varlamov, and Romanov help me (since I've been here)." 

But there was another player who impacted Tsyplakov choosing the Islanders. 

"Shane Prince, remember him?" Tsyplakov said. "We talk after season in KHL, and I meet with him. Said it's a great city, great system and a great opportunity."

Prince, who played his final three NHL seasons on Long Island (2015-2018), also helped him learn English. 

Tsyplakov is currently working with a tutor to improve, something that Sorokin did when he first came over. 

As for Tsyplakov's game, he seems like a Swiss-army kind of player, something that coaches love. 

"I'm physical. I can take the puck, play on the PK, and I play the power play at the net front," Tsyplakov said. "I can go to the net because that's my game."

Although Tsyplakov has been skating with the NHLers at the captain practices, it was nice for him to get on the ice with the prospects. 

"It's a good practice for me because we practice with many of the guys, on the ice and in the gym. Those aren't hard practices.

"Right now, it's hard practice, and it's better for me."

Tsyplakov is expected to make the NHL roster, and it wouldn't be a shock to see him start in a top-six role, likely alongside Brock Nelson and Kyle Palmieri.