“Hockey Day in America” features Islanders and Long Island Born Players
Today is “Hockey Day in America”! The NHL will feature NBC and NBCSN broadcasting American teams and American born players throughout the day. The New York Islanders are featured in the first game of the quadrupleheader today as well as many NHL players born and raised on Long Island. What games can you watch throughout the day?
Buffalo Sabres vs. New York Islanders
The Sabres and Islanders will conclude a three-game series on Sunday afternoon, opening up the day at noon. American born players include Jack Eichel, Kyle Okposo for Buffalo and Anders Lee, Brock Nelson and rookie Oliver Wahlstrom for the Islanders. This battle between two New York based teams will perfectly show off the passion and energy New York hockey teams and fans bring. This game is on NBC, whereas the rest of them are on NBCSN.
Tampa Bay Lightning vs. Chicago Blackhawks
In the 2:30 p.m. slot, we have a rematch of the 2015 Stanley Cup Final, with the Tampa Bay Lightning taking on the Chicago Blackhawks. The Lightning are defending up champs and are currently atop the Central Division. The Blackhawks sit in 4th place, so far surpassing expectations that they were given. Patrick Kane and Alex Debrincat headline American born players for Chicago. Kane is considered as “one of the best American players of all-time.” Ryan McDonagh, Blake Coleman and Pat Maroon are Tampa Bay’s best Americans.
New Jersey Devils vs. Boston Bruins
The third game showcased will be between the Devils and Bruins, giving us the second of three East Division matchups today. Long Island’s own Charlie McAvoy and Kyle Palmieri will be featured in the game as well as Jack Hughes and Charlie Coyle. Game time from TD Garden is at 5:00 p.m. EST.
New York Rangers vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
The last game on NBCSN for the day is between the Rangers and the Penguins. The Rangers have more American players than we can name including Adam Fox (Long Island native), Chris Krieder and Brendan Lemieux. For the Penguins, Bryan Rust and Zach Aston-Reese, who is from Staten Island, among others will be featured.
Today will be a great day full of hockey in the United States and especially for the hockey fans on Long Island. A lot of hockey talent has been produced over the years on Long Island and it is starting to show in the NHL. Long Island’s team has to be a big reason why, as they open up the day of games. Which game will you be watching?
