The New York Islanders have agreed to move to
Brooklyn's Barclays Center in 2015.
The team made the announcement at a Wednesday press conference.
The Islanders' lease at the antiquated Nassau Coliseum expires following the
2014-15 season and the club had been trying unsuccessfully to secure a new
arena to stay in Long Island.
"It was our goal from day one to keep the Islanders in the local New York
area." Isles owner Charles Wang said. "We're thrilled to have the opportunity
to play in Barclays Center, a first class arena. This has been a long journey
for the Islanders family starting with our loyal fans, sponsors, and
employees. I want to personally thank them for their patience, loyalty, and
support. I am excited about today's announcement and I am looking forward to a
long and successful future in Brooklyn."
Wang added that the New York Islanders name and logo will remain unchanged.
The Islanders and Barclays Center have reached a 25-year agreement that will
begin with the 2015-16 season. The Islanders will share the arena with the
NBA's Brooklyn Nets, who moved from New Jersey after last season.
"We are delighted to welcome the Islanders to Brooklyn and to bring NHL hockey
to the borough for the first time," said Barclays Center majority owner and
developer Bruce Ratner. "Eleven subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road
come directly to Barclays Center at Atlantic Terminal, offering great
accessibility for current and future Islander fans. I want to thank Charles
for his determination in keeping the team in New York and for having the
vision to bring his club to Brooklyn."
The state-of-the-art Barclays Center, which opened last month, will hold
14,500 for hockey.
The Nassau Coliseum has been the home of the Islanders since opening in 1972.
©2012 Sports Network. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
