It was 1985 and New York Islanders owner John Pickett, once a savior for the franchise, had moved to Florida. The now absentee owner ran a tight ship through the late ’80s, and early 90’s pressuring the late great GM Bill Torrey to make decisions that would ultimately harm the team.
Islander fans had little time to relish the Dynasty. Almost immediately, the organization embarked on a nearly 30-year ride of dysfunction.
The Isles would miss the playoffs three times from 1988-91; their only appearance in 1990 an embarrassing opening round loss to the Rangers in five games.