Given the way the regular season ended, with a 4-2 win over the Montreal Canadiens to clinch a playoff berth, and the legacy of previous Islanders home playoff games, expectations were high heading into Friday's Game Three.
"Having been there for the 2021 playoff run, the atmosphere I witnessed was unbelievable," Michael Barsch said before the game. "I can't wait to be back with all the fans for that same energy in a brand-new building."
The energy began to stir up hours before puck drop, the Islanders hosted their fourth Plaza Party, presented by Heineken. Fans packed the outdoor venue, taking photos in front of the display of balloons and neon lights. Bobby Nystrom - better known as Mr. Islander - had a long line of fans excited to meet him ahead of Game Three. Ria, the Islanders in-arena host showed off her DJ skills to pump up the fans who arrived ahead of time.
Andrew Lobasso was one of the fans to arrive early, and was asked how far he'd go for free playoff tickets for Sunday's Game Four matchup, but the offer had one catch.
"They asked if they could shave my head for tickets," Lobasso said. "I said yes, no hesitation. I'm so excited."