Johnston Continuing to Work on Game After Contract Extension

Commitment was the buzz word at Ross Johnston's media availability on Wednesday morning.
The Islanders forward spoke about the commitment the players have shown to each other, Long Island and developing a specific team identity over the past four seasons. He noted how many players had committed to the team long term, which is a group that now includes Johnston, fresh off
signing a four-year contract extension
on Tuesday.

"You see the commitment from the guys that have been here awhile, guys are signing deals to stick here long term," Johnston said. "That shows how close our group is, what we believe we can do in here. The commitment from the core group and the all-around area of Long Island. It's been a home for me and I'm very gracious to have the opportunity to stay here for a few more years."

Johnston has played in 87 games for the Islanders, becoming a fixture on the roster starting in 2017-18. The Charlottetown, PEI native has been a good soldier over that span, staying ready for when he needs to be inserted in the lineup, ready to provide a physical presence or protect his teammates.
"Ross hasn't seen a lot of ice time or a lot of games, but he's a guy that brings an element," Head Coach Barry Trotz said. "He's a big man who fills a role for us and an identity for us that we'll continue with."
Trotz said that while Johnston's physicality - both his 6'5, 232 lbs. frame and his willingness to drop the gloves - is the first thing that stands out, the Islanders coach has seen a lot of development in Johnston's game. Johnston's skills have shone through, whether it's the clean far-side wrister he scored against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the 2019-20 season, or the nifty mid-air deflection of a Cal Clutterbuck pass this past preseason.
"There's another level for Ross," Trotz said. "A lot of elements in his game have come a long way in the last couple of years."

Johnston, who was one of the few players to skate on a non-practice day for the team, said he plans to put his head down and keep working towards getting better.
"I don't think by any means I'm where I want to be yet," Johnston said. "With that comes practice, a lot of reps and working on those details to take my game to that next level. Right now, I'm doing what it takes to build those steps to take it to where I think it can be. For me, it's just continuing to do the same thing."
And he's happy to continue to do that with the Islanders.
"I'm thrilled," Johnston said of signing for four more years. "I couldn't be happier to be a part of it, getting the deal done this early is something that gives great peace of mind for me and I'm very excited to help this team win for hopefully years to come."