New York Islanders hockey is back. Here’s everything you need to know, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just tuning in.
Full first season under Roy:
After consecutive first-round playoff losses to the Carolina Hurricanes, the Islanders are aiming for a stronger 2024-25 season. This marks the first full season under Hall of Fame goaltender Patrick Roy, who took over as head coach mid-season last year, replacing Lane Lambert. Roy sparked a turnaround, leading the Islanders to an impressive 11-2-1 record down the stretch, securing a playoff berth.
A four-time Stanley Cup champion, Roy is known for his “fiery” attitude and no-nonsense coaching style. His first training camp with the team placed a heavy emphasis on high-intensity drills, setting the tone for a competitive season. Read more here.
Roster moves:
Moving on: The Islanders parted ways with longtime forward Cal Clutterbuck. Although not officially retired, the 37-year-old will begin the season as a TV analyst with MSG Networks. Meanwhile, Matt Martin, his “Identity Line” line mate, is still with the organization on a professional tryout, though he did not make the opening night roster. The Islanders also waived forward Pierre Engvall a year after he signed a seven-year deal with the team.
New faces: This offseason, the Islanders signed free agent forwards Anthony Duclair and Maxim Tsyplakov. Duclair is expected to compete for a spot on the top line alongside Mat Barzal and Bo Horvat. In a potentially under-the-radar move, the Isles also signed Russian forward Tsyplakov to a one-year, $950,000 contract. The 25-year-old notched 31 goals and 16 assists for 47 points in 65 KHL games last season.
What’s new:
First jersey patch sponsor: The Islanders announced their first-ever jersey patch sponsor, Solo Stove, an outdoor lifestyle brand.
JetBlue partnership: The Islanders have also teamed up with JetBlue this season. TrueBlue and Mosaic members will now enjoy exclusive offers at UBS Arena, including priority lane access and special event perks, plus access to the “Terrace by JetBlue,” an outdoor gathering space dubbed the team’s “front porch.”
New food offerings: UBS Arena and Delaware North added to the food scene this season with the addition of celebrity chef David Chang’s eatery, Fuku. Fans can enjoy a variety of chicken sandwiches and tenders at Market 214. See the full lineup here.
The Park: Returning this season is The Park, an outdoor experience featuring ice skating, family-friendly games, a BYOB beer garden, and more — perfect for pre-game fun. Learn more here.
Streaming: MSG Networks teamed with YES Network to launch an all-new sports streaming service called Gotham Sports. Through the app, fans have access to New York Islanders, New York Knicks, New Jersey Devils, New York Islanders and Buffalo Sabres, New York Yankees and Brooklyn Nets games. It’s priced at 41.99 per month or $359.99 per year.
Stanley Cup odds:
According to ESPN Bet, the Islanders have +5000 odds to win the Stanley Cup this season. A $100 bet could land you $5,000 if they take home the trophy. For comparison, they share the same odds as the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings, while the Rangers, their crosstown rivals, stand at +1200.
Key nights:
The Islanders’ first regular-season game is on Thursday, Oct. 10, at home against the Utah Hockey Club, a brand-new team from Salt Lake City. Puck drop is at 7:30 p.m.
Promotional and group nights:
- Military Appreciation Night – Nov. 9 vs. New Jersey Devils: The first 10,000 fans receive an Islanders camo hat.
- Italian Heritage Night – Oct. 29 vs. Anaheim Ducks: The first 300 fans who purchase tickets here will receive an Islanders-Italian apron.
- Pride Night – Jan. 16 vs. Philadelphia Flyers: The first 500 fans will receive a Pride-themed belt bag.
- Star Wars Night – Jan. 25 vs. Philadelphia Flyers: Star Wars giveaways throughout the night (details coming soon).
- Youth Hockey Day – March 22 vs. Calgary Flames: The first 300 fans receive a special Islanders hockey tape. Tap here for tickets.
Top: Outside of UBS Arena on Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023, in Elmont, New York. (AP Photo/Frank Franklin II)
