NHL Rumors: Could the Battle of New York Be Over?

The Battle of New York.

One of the greatest rivalries in sports could soon be history. The New York Islanders and New York Rangers share not only the same division but also some of hockey's greatest playoff moments.

In 1972, a new franchise graced the New York metropolitan area. The New York Islanders, in the shadow of the mighty original six Rangers, were born.

After the $4 million territorial fee and a few years of building by the legendary Bill Torrey, the Rangers and Islanders met in their first Stanley Cup playoff series.

The year was 1975 and the Islanders, not even three years old, were to take on the powerhouse Rangers, and the rivalry was born.

The Islanders won the deciding Game 3 when J. P. Parise buried the puck 11 seconds in to overtime. This would be a defining moment in Islander history. They overcame the odds and this seemed to be a reoccurring theme for them for many years.

Feb. 25, 1979, was the day that pushed most Rangers fans over the edge. Hall of Famer Denis Potvin put a clean check on the point per game star of the Rangers, Ulf Nilsson.

The hit brought Ulf rapidly to the end of his career and the “Potvin Sucks” chant is still heard to this day at every Rangers home game and whenever they visit Nassau Coliseum.

But now is a time to set aside our differences because the Islanders are in danger of moving. Hall of Famer and former Ranger Rob Gilbert had this to say:

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“The rivalry between us and the Islanders is magical. I think of J. P. Parise’s goal breaking our hearts and the great series between us in 1979—right before the Islanders’ dynasty had its run.

I want to see that magic back. Instead of the Rangers playing in Philadelphia, when the Islanders’ situation gets settled, how about a Rangers—Islanders game in a few years at Yankee Stadium or Citi Field?”

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If the arena deal doesn’t pass on Aug. 1st, it’s pretty much Nassau County telling the Islanders to get out. I can’t imagine any fan of any team wanting the most successful American based NHL expansion team to pack up and go.

The fact that current and former Rangers are coming out is enough reason to come together and vote yes. If you’re not a resident of Nassau County I urge you to spread the word.

If you are a resident, get out and vote Aug. 1st. The future of this franchise and this great rivalry depends on it.