from Steven Marcus of Newsday,

John Tavares is not looking to escape the woes surrounding the Islanders. Rather, he reaffirmed his commitment to remain with the organization despite the opportunity to test free agency after the 2017-18 season.

“I think for myself, I’ve always shown and talked about my commitment here,’’ said the four-time All-Star, who signed a six-year, $33-million extension in 2011, on Monday at Northwell Health Ice Center. “Wanting to have success here and keep building on some of the good things we’ve done. Obviously, this [low] point’s been disappointing.’’

The Islanders, who have played 38 games, are last in the Eastern Conference. Tavares has only 27 points (11 goals, 16 assists) and has scored two goals in the last 11 games.

“For myself, I know that I have not been to the level that I expect of myself and the standard that I want to be at,’’ he said. “[I keep] trying to improve and get better. I need to be counted on more, to be more of a difference-maker.’’

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