It's October 5th, why is there no hockey?

It sure seems like the calendar is right for hockey, even though the date of the now-canceled regular season opener is still a week away.

The Isles have started many a season by October 5th...16 of them in fact (including two in which their 2nd game was by this date).

Most memorable October 5th: try these:

1991 -  With defected star Pat LaFontaine sitting at home, the Isles go in to Boston and win their opener 4-3.

2001 -  Michael Peca has points on all three goals and Mark Parrish scores twice in 99 seconds as the Isles rally to defeat the Lightning 3-2 in Peter Laviolette's first game as head coach.  The Isles wouldn't lose in regulation until November 2nd.  Funny, this year I'd like them to lose in October!

2005 -  Having achieved major concessions from their players, the NHL gets back in business and the Isles drop a 6-4 decision in Buffalo.
It's the Islanders' first game after the last lockout, which ended on July 22nd.  At the time, Commissioner Bettman said the following:

"Today, our Board of Governors gave its unanimous approval to a Collective Bargaining Agreement that signals a new era for our League - an era of economic stability for our franchises, an era of heightened competitive balance for our  players, an era of unparalleled excitement and entertainment for our fans."

* * * *

"Our foundation for the future now is in place. It is the mandate of this new partnership, achieved at enormous cost, to reconnect with our fans and refocus the spotlight where it belongs: on the ice, on the beauty and the skill of our remarkable game and on the world's best professional athletes."

* * * *
"We know that this was a terrible time for everyone associated with the game. We pledge to our fans that we will do everything we can to make it up to you."
 
Forever1940 is the nom de plume of Eric Hornick, statistician on Islander home telecasts since January 21, 1982. Visit my blog: NYISkinny.com and follow me on Twitter @ehornick