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The New York Islanders joined the NHL in 1972 during the league’s attempt to keep a World Hockey Association (WHA) franchise off Long Island. The Islanders had near-immediate success, making the playoffs in their third season, which started a streak of 13 consecutive postseason appearances. During that streak, they won four straight Stanley Cups—1980, 1981, 1982, and 1983—and went to another Stanley Cup Final in 1984. The Islanders of the early 1980s remain one of the greatest dynasties in NHL history. 

New York Islanders’ Greatest of All-Time

On Feb. 4, 1978, Hockey Hall of Famer and a member of the 100 Greatest NHL Players club, Mike Bossy, recorded the first hat trick of his NHL career as the New York Islanders won 6-1 over Washington. In honour of that first of many accomplishments, we have pulled this nugget from the THW Archives, written by former THW contributor Anatoliy Metter and originally published Sept. 24, 2012. Many hockey fans might remember the New York Islanders of the 1980s because of their collection of Stanley Cup championships, but those championships were built through careful drafting and key acquisitions. Players such as Mike…

Islanders Can Play With Pace, But Should They?

The Florida Panthers came at teams in waves. They had three forward lines that could score and score in bunches. The Panthers had no problem firing 40 shots on the net to win games and pressure the opposing defense all the way to their second Stanley Cup title in as many years. There’s a classic debate about whether teams should value possession and high-danger shots or shot volume and scoring chances. The Carolina Hurricanes faced the Panthers in a clash of these two offensive philosophies. The Panthers came out on top, and they’ve become the standard in the NHL, making…

Horvat Trade Warning, Oilers Early Contracts, & More NHL Rumors

In today’s NHL rumors rundown, Bo Horvat has gone to Islanders management and made it clear how he feels about the idea of being traded. Meanwhile, one insider predicted at least five Oilers would have new contracts signed within the month. Finally, are the Winnipeg Jets at all worried that they might struggle to get Kyle Connor signed to an extension? Or, is he open to the idea of locking in long-term? Horvat Tells Islanders, “You Better Not Trade Me” The New York Islanders appear headed for a retool—or possibly a rebuild—after trading top defenseman Noah Dobson to Montreal for…

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Today in Hockey History: July 18

Yesterday in Hockey History: July 17 Tomorrow in Hockey History: July 19 July 18 has not seen a ton of moves over the years, but two of the National Hockey League’s “Original Six” franchises set themselves up for long-term success on this date. Also, a wild front office situation on…

 

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Islanders FAQ

What year were the New York Islanders founded?

The New York Islanders joined the NHL in 1972.

When did the New York Islanders play their first game?

The Islanders’ first game was played on Oct. 7, 1972, against the Atlanta Flames and resulted in a 3-2 loss.

Who is the current head coach of the New York Islanders?

Patrick Roy is the current head coach of the New York Islanders.