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Islanders' Mike Bossy, Part 2: Trading In A Sweater For A Necktie

By Jeff Capellini, CBSNewYork/WFAN.com

NEW YORK (WFAN) -- After leaving the game at the conclusion of the '86-'87 season, Bossy began a strange journey that featured him trying a little bit of everything. The native of Montreal worked as sales director of a snack food company up in Quebec and also did part-time on-air work for the morning crew of a French language radio station in Montreal. He dabbled a bit in the restaurant business and did some on-air work during Quebec Nordiques telecasts.

However, there was something missing. He said he wanted at some point to get back into the NHL, perhaps as an executive charged with building a Cup contender. But for whatever reason a front office job didn't happen right away.

That all changed in 2006 when Islanders owner Charles Wang picked up the phone. Bossy is now the team's VP of corporate sponsorships, a position that figures to become vitally important if the Isles have their new arena plan approved by Nassau County's residents and then by all the political bigwigs that are waiting in line, some with bats in hand.

He said he digs the corporate gig, but I wondered aloud if maybe a more hands-on role with player-personnel decision will eventually be on his radar. Bossy pretty much put me in my place right then and there.

"My role with the Islanders has always been clear with Charles since I came on board in that I would help out in any way I can. As long as I am with the Islanders I will let them make the decisions," Bossy said.

But being the professional that I am I pushed the issue, asking if current GM Garth Snow ever picks his brain on potential players that could help transform the team from a group with serious potential into one that can become a perennial playoff participant, something that hasn't been the case for going on 20 years.

"I have numerous discussions with Garth about nothing specific, but we have conversations quite a few times about future players and current players. I'm never against that and Garth knows I always have an opinion and Garth bends my ear, but I will never go to Garth unsolicited. It's the same as with Charles. He's the owner, Garth is the general manager," Bossy said.

Okay then. Moving on.

NEXT: Mike Bossy, Part 3: The Young And The Restless

BACK: 25 Years Later, Bossy Is Still 'Mr. 50-50,' Now 'Mr. VP' And Forever An Islanders Legend

Read more columns by Jeff Capellini

Where do you think Bossy stacks up against the greats in NHL history? Please offer your thoughts in the comments section below.

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