The New York Islanders reportedly have an opt-out clause in their lease with the Barclays Center.
Ever since the New York Islanders have moved to the Barclays Center, it has been painfully obvious that the arena isn’t ideal for hockey. There are awful sight lines, obstructed views, and worst of all, Barclays is a pain in the butt to get to. Isles’ players haven’t enjoyed their time at Barclays compared to Long Island. Luckily, the team has an opt-out clause in their lease with Barclays and they can exercise it after the 2017-18 season.
From Newsday:
"After the Isles finish their second season in Brooklyn, the two sides have until Jan. 1, 2018, to renegotiate the terms of the current deal. If no new deal is reached, the two sides can stay with the current deal or choose to opt out. Each side would have until Jan. 30, 2018, to deliver an opt-out notice in writing."
Either of the sides can opt-out. If New York opts out, they have the option to leave either after their third season (2018) or their fourth season (2019). Should Barclays choose to opt out, the Isles can leave after the 2018-19 season. In order to exercise the opt-out clause, the two sides are required to engage in “good-faith discussions” during the month-long renegotiation window.
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The Isles have options should they decide to opt-out. They can move to Belmont Park, a much more luxurious place than Brooklyn. The team is also exploring a site next to Citi Field in Queens. Both of those sites would be easier to get to than Barclays. Parking would not be an issue. That has been a major issue with the Barclays Center.
Of those two options, their best option is most likely Belmont Park. The team is already discussing the possibility with the New York Racing Association.