Brooklyn, NY – The New York Islanders have agreed to move to Brooklyn's Barclays Center in 2015.
The team made the announcement at a Wednesday press conference.
The Islanders' lease at the antiquated Nassau Coliseum expires following the 2014-15 season and the club had been trying unsuccessfully to secure a new arena to stay in Long Island.
"It was our goal from day one to keep the Islanders in the local New York area." Isles owner Charles Wang said. "We're thrilled to have the opportunity to play in Barclays Center, a first class arena. This has been a long journey for the Islanders family starting with our loyal fans, sponsors, and employees. I want to personally thank them for their patience, loyalty, and support. I am excited about today's announcement and I am looking forward to a long and successful future in Brooklyn."
Wang added that the New York Islanders name and logo will remain unchanged.
The Islanders and Barclays Center have reached a 25-year agreement that will begin with the 2015-16 season. The Islanders will share the arena with the NBA's Brooklyn Nets, who moved from New Jersey after last season.
"We are delighted to welcome the Islanders to Brooklyn and to bring NHL hockey to the borough for the first time," said Barclays Center majority owner and developer Bruce Ratner. "Eleven subway lines and the Long Island Rail Road come directly to Barclays Center at Atlantic Terminal, offering great accessibility for current and future Islander fans. I want to thank Charles for his determination in keeping the team in New York and for having the vision to bring his club to Brooklyn."
The state-of-the-art Barclays Center, which opened last month, will hold 14,500 for hockey.
The Nassau Coliseum has been the home of the Islanders since opening in 1972.
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