New York Islanders Beat Blue Jackets 4-2, Back In Playoff Spot ELMONT, NY -- Barry Trotz [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-islanders/latest-news/new-york-islanders-barry-trotz-ubs-arena-chat-listen-nashville-predators] is back on Long Island for the first time since his mysterious firing following the 2021-22 season as the New York Islanders [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-islanders/latest-news/new-york-islanders-barry-trotz-ubs-arena-chat-listen-nashville-predators] host the Nashville Predators. Alongside general manager Lou Lamoriello, Trotz played a focal role in bringing the pride back to Long Island. In his four years behind the Islanders bench, he led them to three consecutive playoff berths, with back-to-back trips to the Eastern Conference Semi-Finals in 2020 and 2021. "That first year, we were pegged as being one of the bottom teams in the league, and we ended up going to the [playoffs’] second round," Islanders forward Mathew Barzal said. "I think Barry does a great job of bringing everybody together. I think he’s going to be a great GM because he understands culture.” Image [https://thehockeynews.com/.image/c_fit,h_600,w_600/MjA1NTU1MzA0MDU2NzU5Mzcw/usatsi_14749823.jpg] He did a lot for this group in terms of showing us what we’re capable of. He instilled a sense of confidence and belief in ourselves,” Cal Clutterbuck said. “You’re like, ‘The guy who won the Cup last year feels like the capability is in this room.’ So much so that he’s willing to go to his team to accept his ring and tell them that they’re going to have to take down the juggernaut Islanders. It was good. It was funny.” Trotz will always be remembered for the work he did in getting the team, with many still here, believing in themselves that they had the ability. At the first commercial break, the Islanders honored him with a tribute video: More on Trotz coming on Sunday over at The Hockey News.
