The New York Islanders have assigned 2008 NHL Entry Draft selections, Kevin Poulin and Jyri Niemi back to their junior clubs.  Goaltender Mikko Koskinen and forward Robin Figren have been assigned to the organization’s American Hockey League affiliate, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers. 

Poulin entered his second NHL camp with the Islanders this past week after completing his best year on the QMJHL with the Victoriaville Tigers last season.  The Montreal, QC native had a 3.17 goals-against average and a .900 save percentage.  Niemi returns to his WHL team, the Saskatoon Blades after playing in his first NHL preseason game Sunday night against the Edmonton Oilers.  Niemi enters his third full season with the Blades.  Through his first two seasons, playing in the WHL, Niemi has totaled 21 goals and 45 assists for 66 points in 109 games. 

Both Koskinen and Figren face their first professional seasons in the United States.  The 6’5 net-minder from Vantaa, Finland, was drafted by the Islanders this past summer in the 2009 NHL Entry Draft.  Figren skated for the Sound Tigers in three games for the Sound Tigers last season prior to the Calder Cup Playoffs.  He registered an assist and two penalty-minutes.