Brooklyn-Bound Islanders To Play Preseason Game At Barclays Center
NEW YORK (CBSNewYork) -- Brooklyn will get a look at its future NHL franchise prior to the 2013-14 season, when the Islanders play the New Jersey Devils in a preseason tilt at Barclays Center.
It will be the first-ever NHL game played in the borough.
"There's a lot of excitement about professional hockey bound for Brooklyn, where the Islanders have a terrific opportunity to grow their fan base and build their brand," Barclays Center CEO Brett Yormark said in a statement. "The team is showing great resurgence this season, with young star John Tavares, and is on the verge of making the playoffs. We're proud to continue to bring top sports and entertainment to Barclays Center and we look forward to welcoming Brooklyn's newest team."
EXTRA: ISLES TO BROOKLYN? THERE'S A SHIRT FOR THAT
The Islanders are scheduled to move from Nassau to Brooklyn for the 2015-16 season, though there has been speculation the team could look to exit the Coliseum early. The NBA's Brooklyn Nets completed their move to Barclays Center last year.
Tickets for the Sept. 21 preseason game will go on sale to season-ticket holders of the Islanders and Nets, and American Express card-members Thursday. Everyone else will have to wait until April 17.
"Over the past 40 years, Nassau Coliseum has been one of the best buildings to attend and watch a hockey game," Islanders general manager Garth Snow said in a statement. "Our fans create an atmosphere that is second to none where you can feel the energy inside the Coliseum when the team makes a big play. I'm excited for our fans to bring that energy and have the ability to enjoy an Islanders game while taking advantage of the world class amenities at Barclays Center, that stand above and beyond what any other arena provides.
"This preseason game will be their first opportunity to do so. Our strong group of young talent is ready to take the ice in their future home, Barclays Center."
Last year's Islanders-Devils preseason game at Barclays Center was canceled due to the NHL lockout.
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