As another year of Islanders’ hockey begins to wrap up, despite a lackluster season, the team has been very lucky with its on-air talent. The Islanders on MSG Networks team of Brendan Burke, Butch Goring and Shannon Hogan are completing their sixth season together, and they have once again been a joy to listen to on television. Burke has been a high-riser in the broadcasting ranks of the NHL, earning a top job with TNT, as well. Add the chemistry he shares with Goring and Hogan, and the three add enjoyment to any game.

However, much like any hockey team, it is always important to have depth. With Burke occasionally traveling and Goring taking some time away due to shoulder surgery, the team’s partners at MSG have needed to find alternate talent for the team’s coverage. But despite all the changes, the network’s depth has been marvelous throughout the season.

Chris King:

A long time staple of Islanders’ radio broadcasts, Chris King got called-up to the television booth once this year. With Burke away from the team due to an illness, King stepped in to call the Islanders’ game against the Montreal Canadiens, and he filled in very well. His fast-paced commentary and passion made the game an entertaining watch, and it was refreshing to see him get TV time away from the radio. If Burke were to see his role at TNT increase, getting King on a few more games — on television, not radio — could give him much deserved to a new audience.

Jiggs McDonald:

Another longtime face of the Islanders that has come in is Jiggs McDonald. A voice of the Islanders since 1980, Jiggs has made a handful of appearances throughout the season. He helped christen UBS Arena in a pregame ceremony to the team’s home opener, and his iconic voice returned for two games this season. He called the Seattle Kraken’s inaugural visit to Belmont Park in February, as well as Anders Lee’s first career hat trick in an Islanders’ win over the Columbus Blue Jackets in March. While he hadn’t called a game since 2017 before that, he has stayed with the organization for the long run, and it’s nice to see him get a the spotlight one more time. While no one knows what’s next for him, he is a quality piece for MSG and their depth chart.

Anson Carter:

On the side of color commentary, one of the names that has filled in for Goring is Anson Carter. Carter has spent time with NBC as an analyst, and he has spent time with MSG for hockey-related programming. However, he has now shifted to MSG Networks, and the Islanders have given him time alongside Burke during games. When in the booth, he has a style that’s different to Goring, as he has played in a more modern game as opposed to Goring in the 80s. Also, he and Burke have good chemistry when together, as Carter and Burke can have some entertaining exchanges in game. Even with the unfortunate circumstances of Goring’s absence, Carter has made a great substitute, as he has become a fan favorite for his work with MSG.

Others:

While these three are the main pieces that have appeared, these are just the tip of the iceberg. Former USA Women’s Hockey player AJ Mlezcko has also remained on for select Islanders’ games this season — her fourth season with the team. Also, for the game against the Pittsburgh Penguins on April 12, former Canada Women’s Hockey player Meaghan Mikkelson joined the Islanders’ broadcast team for intermissions. Add some spot appearances for analyst Joe Micheletti, Bridgeport Islanders’ broadcaster Alan Fuehring and NHL Network analyst EJ Hradek, and the Islanders-MSG Networks relationship has provided a wide range of broadcast depth.

As the season has progressed, it has been fun to listen to a wide range of voices to make broadcasts enjoyable during a difficult season.

Matthew Page

I am a first year student at Hofstra University and an avid Islanders fan. I have been writing for Drive4Five since March 2020. My family has been season ticket holders for the team since 2016, and hockey is my favorite sport. As I expand my knowledge in the field of Journalism, I am writing to express my love for the Islanders and the NHL.