Let it never be said that Islanders fans don’t know how to send a warm welcome to someone important. In John Tavares’ first game back on Long Island as a member of the Toronto Maple Leafs, those in the building created a playoff atmosphere for the two teams to do battle, and it’s hard not to envision a rivalry budding here.
Ultimately, though, the Maple Leafs were positively outclassed by the Islanders tonight, a cathartic ending to the last week or so of drama and media scrutiny over this game and the fans’ reactions.