New York Islanders

The Islanders endured terrible early seasons after joining the NHL in 1972, but general manager Bill Torrey's patient rebuilding through the draft created one of the greatest teams in hockey history. Denis Potvin, Bryan Trottier, Mike Bossy, Clark Gillies, and Billy Smith formed the core of a team that would dominate the NHL from 1980 to 1983, winning four consecutive Stanley Cups.

Mike Bossy was one of the purest goal scorers in hockey history, recording nine consecutive 50-goal seasons. Bryan Trottier won the Hart Trophy and Conn Smythe Trophy, while Denis Potvin anchored the defense. Billy Smith was a fierce competitor in goal who won the Conn Smythe in 1983. The dynasty ended when the Islanders lost to the Edmonton Oilers in the 1984 Final, passing the torch to the next great team. The four-Cup run remains one of the most impressive accomplishments in professional sports.

After the dynasty ended, the Islanders entered a prolonged period of decline marked by poor ownership, financial instability, and dwindling attendance at the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. A series of owners were unable to sustain the franchise's competitive level, and the team became one of the weakest in the NHL.

There were brief bright spots, including Pat LaFontaine's brilliant play in the late 1980s and the drafting of a few talented players, but the franchise was largely irrelevant during this period. The team was sold multiple times, and at various points, its long-term viability on Long Island was questioned. The contrast with the dynasty era made the decline all the more painful for the franchise's devoted fanbase.

John Tavares was drafted first overall in 2009 and became the face of the franchise, a gifted center who tried to will the Islanders back to relevance. Tavares was named captain and gave the franchise credibility and hope during a difficult period. The team made occasional playoff appearances but could not sustain success.

The arena situation remained a constant distraction, with the aging Nassau Coliseum unable to generate the revenue needed to compete. The Islanders briefly moved to the Barclays Center in Brooklyn in 2015, a venue ill-suited for hockey that frustrated players and fans alike. Tavares's departure as a free agent to the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2018 was a crushing blow, but it ultimately paved the way for a new direction under coach Barry Trotz.