Uniondale, NY (My Sportsbook) - The New York Islanders announced Tuesday that they have signed veteran defenseman Bryan Berard to a one-year deal after the 30-year old earned a spot following an invite to training camp.

Berard, who captured the Calder Trophy as the league's top rookie in 1996-97 with the Isles, played the last two years with the Columbus Blue Jackets. Last season, he played in just 11 games due to surgery to repair a herniated disc.

"I came to camp determined to prove to the Islanders I belonged in the NHL and I'm very appreciative of Garth Snow and Ted Nolan for giving me the chance," said Berard. "The guys have already shown this season what kind of character this team has and how strong a team we are. My goal is to do everything I can to make us better."

In 565 career NHL games with the Islanders, Toronto Maple Leafs, New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, Chicago Blackhawks and Blue Jackets, the well-traveled Berard has 71 goals and 230 assists.

Berard, a native of Woonsocket, Rhode Island, was originally selected first overall by the Ottawa Senators in the 1995 NHL Draft and was shipped to the Islanders in 1996.