Plenty of today's New York Islanders got their start playing in Bridgeport.
For many of the longest tenured Islanders - like Anders Lee, Matt Martin, Brock Nelson and Casey Cizikas - Bridgeport was their first taste of pro hockey and introduction to the organization.
"It was extremely important for my development, as you try to make that jump from college to the NHL," Lee said. "Without admitting it at the time I think it was really good for me to spend time in Bridgeport and work on my game and get the ins and outs of pro hockey down a bit. The time I spent there definitely got me ready for the NHL."
Islanders Have Bond With Bridgeport
With three preseason games at Webster Bank Arena, the Islanders reflect on their time in Bridgeport
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