The Islanders and Flames have a trivial history of openers, what with both franchises entering the league together in 1972 and beginning with a 3-2 Atlanta Flames victory at Nassau Coliseum.
Last season the Flames were again the guest of honor as the Islanders opened their second “permanent” home (not sure how to categorize Brooklyn, in retrospect), but Calgary spoiled the party by taking advantage of a Covid-ravaged Isles lineup that was returning from a long road trip that opened a season soon to fall into disarray.
So tonight in Elmont is a chance for a do-over of sorts.