"Six years ago, in December 2019, the world was still blissfully unaware of how much it was about to change. On Long Island, hockey felt steady, comforting, and fun again. The New York Islanders were in the middle of a second straight strong season under Barry Trotz, looking every bit like a team built for another playoff run. More importantly, they had an identity - something that had been missing for far too long."
"That appreciation took on a life of its own that holiday season when Barstool Sports released the now iconic "Have Yourself a Barry Little Christmas" blue sweaters. They were silly, perfect, and instantly everywhere. Fans wore them with pride, and weeks later, a group of Islanders players posed for a photo with Trotz and Santa Claus, all wearing the sweaters. It captured the joy of that moment better than any stat line ever could."
December 2019 found the New York Islanders enjoying steady, comforting, and fun hockey under coach Barry Trotz, with a second straight strong season and a clear identity. Trotz instilled structure, accountability, and belief, producing a hard-working, determined team that outworked opponents rather than overwhelming them with elite skill. Fan enthusiasm peaked with Barstool Sports' "Have Yourself a Barry Little Christmas" blue sweaters and a celebratory photo of players, Trotz, and Santa Claus. Since then, many players departed via retirement, trades, expansion draft, or free agency, leaving only captain Anders Lee and Scott Mayfield from that group.
Read at Eyes On Isles
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