Last season, there were many memorable games. The first game back at the Coliseum, the return of John Tavares, the playoff clincher and the two playoff games at the Coliseum highlighted a historic season.
With the Metropolitan Division gaining a lot of star power this offseason, many of the games to look forward will be against divisional opponents.  But of course, the games against the top teams in the NHL are also key games to see where the Isles match-up to them.
Oct. 4, 2019- Capitals vs Islanders
The Isles will make their season debut at the Coliseum as they will face one of the top teams in the Metropolitan Division, the Washington Capitals. The Isles should look to set a tone for the season in front of a loud crowd but most importantly, get the win against a divisional rival.
Oct. 14, 2019- Blues vs Islanders
This game may not mean much to Islanders fans but this is definitely a game to keep an eye on.  The defending Stanley Cup champions come into the Coliseum for a Columbus Day matinee game.  This is a game where the Isles can see how close they are from a Stanley Cup team.
Nov. 1, 2019- Lightning vs Islanders
The Lightning are predicted to be the best team in the NHL once again, and if they live up to the hype like they did last season, this could be a big test for the Isles.  It’s also the first game of a back-to-back as the Isles have to travel to Buffalo after the game.
Nov. 13, 2019- Maple Leafs vs Islanders
This is less about the game and more about the fan reaction.  How will the fans react more than a year after the departure of John Tavares?  Did they get it out of their system?  Are they still passionate about this?  Will it be another rowdy crowd?
Nov. 27, 2019- Islanders vs Kings
The Kings’ run is pretty much done now that they finished 30th in the NHL last season.  They didn’t do much in the offseason so they’re basically the same team.  It’s the last game of the California road trip for the Isles and it’s a game they can’t lose.  The Kings are a very beatable team and the Isles should take full advantage of that.
Dec. 19, 2019- Islanders vs Bruins
In the past, the Isles have not had much success with the Bruins as they are 2-6-1 against them in the last three seasons.  But, the Isles get to see where they match-up to the defending Eastern Conference champions.
Jan. 2, 2020- Devils vs Islanders
It’s the first game of the new year and it’s the Isles first look at the “new” Devils.  The Isles get to see what Jack Hughes brings to the table and also how much of an impact P.K. Subban has.
Jan. 13, 2020- Islanders vs Rangers
This will be the first time these two teams meet for the season.  The Isles match up against Artemi Panarin, who they missed out on during free agency.  Also, this late into the season we get a glimpse as to if the Rangers are a playoff team or if they still need some work.
April 2, 2020- Blackhawks vs Islanders
Robin Lehner makes his return to the Coliseum.  This is also the second to last game of the season. Could it be meaningful?
April 4, 2020- Devils vs Islanders
This is the final game of the regular season.  Once again, it could be a meaningful game.  We also get to see how well Jack Hughes has done in his rookie season and even how well the Devils did.  You never know, this game could be a “win and you’re in” type of game for both teams too.
Honorable Mentions:
Oct. 11, 2019- Islanders vs Hurricanes
This is a prove-it type of game.  The Isles look to get revenge on a team that swept them in the Stanley Cup Playoffs last season.
Feb. 25, 2020- Rangers vs Islanders
This is less about the game than it is more about this being the day after the Trade Deadline.  Does Lamoriello believe in the Isles enough for him to pull the trigger on a move?  Is the team doing well this late into the season?
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