3 places where the Islanders could play

How can the New York Islanders rectify their arena situation? Here are three solutions.

In case you haven’t heard, the New York Islanders are likely done with the Barclays Center after the 2018-19 season. Since the ink dried on the lease, both the Isles and Barclays have had issues with each other. It appears the feeling is mutual so while a one-year extension of the lease is a possibility, don’t count on it. Both parties would love to be done with each other.

The biggest issue this brings up is New York’s future financial flexibility. After the 2018-19 season, the NHL team reportedly won’t be providing revenue for Barclays. It works both ways, as the Isles can’t make money off of them. With John Tavares becoming a free agent after next season, a long-term solution is necessary. Here are three plausible solutions for the team without relocating.

3. Madison Square Garden

The MSG Entertainment company already runs the New York Rangers and New York Knicks. MSG could work out a deal with the Islanders to run events at where their next arena is. It will likely take a bit to build the arena, so where will they play in the meantime? How about in Madison Square Garden?

Why it could work: This isn’t as nuts as it sounds. Staples Center in Los Angeles already hosts the Lakers, Clippers, Kings, and Sparks. Madison Square Garden hosts the Rangers, Knicks, Liberty, and St. John’s Red Storm. A fifth team would be difficult, but plausible. It’s also the easiest temporary solution other than staying in a lease neither party wants to be a part of.

Why it won’t work: The Isles and Rangers likely wouldn’t like sharing the ice with each other. Also, four teams is a lot. Five teams is a bit outlandish, especially when you consider all the concerts. Could you imagine if the Rangers, Knicks (bear with me here), and Islanders are both in the playoffs? This would be a scheduling nightmare. There’s no way it would work out long-term either, as this is clearly a short-term option.