Playing on the third line will be a different role for Pageau after getting big minutes in Ottawa, but Pageau said he's ready to do whatever the Isles ask of him.
"I'll take the role they give me, whatever role it is and take it seriously," Pageau said. "My heart is going to go to the Isles and I'm going to give it my all."
Pageau adds to the Islanders center depth, which looks quite strong with Mathew Barzal, Brock Nelson and Casey Cizikas. They'll each have their roles, from Barzal and Nelson's dynamic offense, through Cizikas' PK and heart-and-soul style. Pageau can go either way.
"When you're looking at a center, you try and get a complete player that can play in all situations," Lamoriello said. "Certainly this young man [Pageau] fit the bill."
This group will be together after this season. Pageau is locked in for six more years, Nelson for five, Cizikas for one more year, while Barzal is an upcoming restricted free agent. Lamoriello said the Isles are very solid down the middle.
"Very excited," Lamoriello said. "With Mat, Brock, Pageau and Casey, I think it solidifies down the middle for a good period of time."