Lehner wants to re-sign with Islanders

Robin Lehner enjoyed the best year of his career in his first season with the New York Islanders, so it's not entirely surprising to hear the pending unrestricted free agent wants to return.

"I like the people there. I love my teammates. I love the organization," Lehner told NHL.com's Dan Rosen on Tuesday. "So obviously I want to be back."

The Islanders signed Lehner to a one-year, $1.5-million contract last summer after a subpar season with the Buffalo Sabres. Lehner had a difficult time personally in 2017-18, as he nearly committed suicide, was addicted to alcohol and sleeping pills, and was eventually diagnosed with bipolar 1 with manic phases.

Lehner told Rosen he doesn't care if it's a long- or short-term deal - he wants to stay with the Islanders.

"I know the team knows where I stand and I just hope something works out," he said.

The Islanders were the only team to offer Lehner a contract last summer, and the netminder described his initial meetings with GM Lou Lamoriello as "some of the best moments in my life."

Lehner went 25-13-5 last season with a .930 save percentage and a 2.13 goals-against average. He and teammate Thomas Greiss won the William M. Jennings Award, and Lehner is also a finalist for the Vezina Trophy and the Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy.