New York Islanders Set to Face Utah Hockey Club in Season Opener

The New York Islanders are poised to begin their 2024-25 season with a home game against the Utah Hockey Club at UBS Arena on October 10. The opening matchup holds considerable intrigue, as it marks the first meeting between these two teams since the Arizona Coyotes‘ relocation and rebranding as the Utah Hockey Club, following their inaugural victory over the Chicago Blackhawks.

The Islanders, hindered by a challenging training camp under Head Coach Patrick Roy, are eager to commence the new season. “It’s always fun to start a new season, always very exciting,” Roy remarked. “I really love the camp that we had; the guys worked really hard and played well in every game we had. We competed and we just want to bring that into this first game.”

This encounter is anticipated to be dynamic, with both teams featuring noteworthy players. The Islanders’ offense will be spearheaded by a potent trio of Bo Horvat, Mathew Barzal, and new addition Anthony Duclair, who signed a four-year deal and participated actively in the Islanders’ pre-season. Additionally, Maxim Tsyplakov, a standout from training camp, is set to make his official NHL debut.

On the other side, the Utah Hockey Club arrives with ambition as they play their first road game. The franchise fortified their defense by acquiring Mikhail Sergachev from the Tampa Bay Lightning among other strategic roster adjustments. Dylan Guenther, a rising star for the squad, is expected to maintain his scoring streak after bagging two goals in their season opener. Meanwhile, longtime team leader Clayton Keller has been appointed as the new team’s captain.

Goalie Semyon Varlamov will take the starting position for the Islanders, bringing his experience and skill to the crease, as confirmed by Coach Roy. Varlamov’s performance last season included a solid record with a 2.60 goals-against average and a .918 save percentage.

Fans can watch the game on ESPN and ESPN+, with puck drop scheduled for 7:30 pm EST. The Islanders hope to replicate their victorious pre-season efforts, which culminated in a 5-2 win over the New York Rangers, largely thanks to Mathew Barzal’s stellar performance.

The Utah Hockey Club’s transition from the Arizona Coyotes introduces a fresh chapter for the franchise. As they look to build on their first victory, they will face a formidable test in a New York Islanders team keen to start their season on a high note.