The Brooklyn Years: A Nostalgic Look Back at the Islanders’ Barclays Center Era
Ten years have passed since the New York Islanders made their move to the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. It was a period filled with anticipation, criticism, and ultimately, a unique chapter in the franchise’s history. Join us as we reminisce about the players, the moments, and the overall experience that defined the “Brooklyn Islanders.”
The Barclays Center Experiment: A Quick Recap
In 2012, the Islanders announced their move to Brooklyn, ending a long tenure at the Nassau Coliseum. While the news initially excited fans, challenges quickly surfaced. The arena, designed primarily for basketball, presented logistical issues for hockey. Fan sentiment was mixed, and the players faced an uphill battle to make the best of a less-than-ideal situation. It was clear early on that a long-term solution was needed, which eventually led to the construction of UBS Arena back on Long Island.
Did you know? The Islanders’ average attendance in Brooklyn was lower than their average attendance at the Nassau Coliseum.
Remembering the “Weird Islanders” of Brooklyn
This era gave rise to a unique group of players who, for various reasons, are now fondly (or not so fondly!) remembered. Whether they were short-term acquisitions, veteran presences, or minor league call-ups, these players encapsulate the quirky nature of the Brooklyn Islanders.
J-F Berube: The Goalie Who Barely Played
Jean-Francois Berube’s time with the Islanders is a classic example. Claimed off waivers, he spent much of his tenure as a backup, leading to frustrations and a complicated situation. His story, and those of other players, became a running joke among the fanbase.
Berube’s story is a stark reminder of the importance of good roster management and clear communication within a team.
Pro tip: A good relationship between a starting goalie and a backup is crucial for the overall health of the team, and should be considered carefully by the management team.
Bracken Kearns: The Sound Tigers Legend
Bracken Kearns, signed to a two-way contract, spent most of his time in the AHL with the Bridgeport Sound Tigers. He was a fan favorite, but his limited NHL appearances highlight the team’s need for depth during the Brooklyn years.
Data point: During the 2015-16 season, the Bridgeport Sound Tigers, where Kearns played, had a significant increase in attendance compared to previous seasons, showcasing the local fan base’s love for Kearns.
Steve Bernier and Marek Zidlicky: Short-Lived Stints, Big Impacts
Steve Bernier and Marek Zidlicky both had brief but memorable tenures. Bernier’s legacy includes a highlight reel of questionable decisions and Zidlicky’s offensive abilities were a welcome addition, despite their limited time on the ice.
Cole Bardreau: A Moment in Time
Cole Bardreau’s penalty shot goal at Barclays Center is a perfect example of the unique, memorable moments that defined the era. It was the first time an Islander scored his first NHL goal on a penalty shot. It will forever be a special moment for the fans who witnessed it.
Internal Link: Read more about other memorable Islanders moments in our article “[Article title about Islanders’ memorable moments]”.
What Made a “Weird Islander”?
The criteria were simple: players with short stints, or veterans not generally associated with the Islanders, but whose time in Brooklyn has become a talking point among fans. These are the players that define the strangeness and the nostalgia of the era.
FAQ
Why did the Islanders move to Brooklyn?
The move was a result of the team’s inability to secure a long-term lease for a renovated or new arena on Long Island at the time.
What were some of the challenges of playing at Barclays Center?
The arena was not designed for hockey, resulting in poor sightlines, limited amenities, and a less-than-ideal playing surface.
Did the Islanders have any success in Brooklyn?
Despite the challenges, the Islanders made the playoffs twice during their time in Brooklyn.
The Brooklyn era may have been a short one, but it remains an essential part of Islanders history, characterized by memorable players, unusual circumstances, and a unique bond between the team and its fans. The move to UBS Arena marks a new chapter, but the memories of Brooklyn will endure.
Explore more about the Islanders’ history and future by checking out our other articles! Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest updates and discussions on everything Islanders.