On September 30, 2011, Staios signed as an unrestricted free agent with the New York Islanders [REF] On April 5, 2012 Staios played in his 1000th NHL game.
Staios announced his retirement as a player following the 2011-12 season, and on July 25, 2012, was hired as a player development adviser for the NHL's Toronto Maple Leafs.