New York Islanders Longest Serving Members in Franchise History

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Apr 21, 2015; Uniondale, NY, USA; General view of the national anthem before the first period of game four of the first round of the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs between the New York Islanders and the Washington Capitals at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /

Bob Nystrom

Appearances: 900, 3rd
Draft: 33rd, 1972 (NY Islanders) Status: Retired
Points: 513 (235G, 278A)

Mr. Islander himself, Bob Nystrom comes in at number three with an even 900 appearances for the Islanders. The only team he would ever play for, and the man that made this happen.

Nystrom scored that famous goal at 7:11 in sudden death overtime of game six to give the New York Islanders their first of four Stanley Cups (did we mention they were back-to-back yet?)

Nystrom was that perfect two-way forward, think of Jonathan Toews level good. Prolific, gritty, defensively responsible and a natural leader. Qualities that were evident his entire career.

Nystrom was the embodiment of the Islanders philosophy under the tutelage of Al Arbour. Win with hard-work, determination, and a touch of skill.

Nystrom is one of the few Islanders legends to have his number retired by the franchise, and the only to have an award named after him.

Every year the New York Islanders award the Bob Nystrom award to the player that: “exemplifies leadership, hustle, and dedication”.

Nystrom is long retired, playing his last game back in 1986. But his effect on the franchise hasn’t waned, and will continue to hold its place of reverence for years to come.

Next: No.2 Denis Potvin