The Hockey News' Stefen Rosner explains why New York Islanders fans can be optimistic heading into next season. Although not a player acquisition, former NHL Chief Operating Officier John Collins will be taking over the New York Islanders' business side of things, first reported by Sportico [https://twitter.com/novy_williams/status/1666799558649602048]. He will also be investing in the organization. "Collins, who was the NHL's chief operating officer from 2008 to 2015, will run the team's business operations, according to the email, which was viewed by Sportico. Malkin's partner Jon Ledecky will remain in his role leading the team's community efforts." The Islanders have confirmed the initial report, per multiple reports. Per a source, Collins is not replacing anyone at the organization. Collins, 61, was responsible for developing the NHL's Winter Classic, which debuted in Orchard Park on Jan 1, 2008, a game between the Buffalo Sabres and Pittsburgh Penguins. Collins was also responsible for the additions of the Stadium Series to the NHL's outdoor landscape, which debuted in 2014 as a four-game slate between three teams. The Islanders will play in their second Stadium Series this upcoming February when they battle the New York Rangers at MetLife Stadium. READ MORE: Islanders vs. Rangers Stadium Series Updates From NHL [https://thehockeynews.com/nhl/new-york-islanders/news/new-york-islanders-new-york-rangers-stadium-series-2024-metlife-stadium-nhl] Since leaving the NHL, Collins has worked for On Location Experiences, a company dedicated to curating premium live event experiences for events worldwide. Per source, "He will be the Operating Partner for the Club, overseeing all business operations." The Islanders are currently worth $920 million, per Sportico's evaluation, which ranks 13th in the NHL out of 32 teams. Their revenue in 2021 was $66 million but more than doubled, with a total revenue of $205 million in 2022. It's not every day that an organization can bring in someone as valuable as Collins. He will play a big role in the continued development around UBS Arena at Belmont Park.
