Bitter end to season stung differently for NY Islanders veteran Casey Cizikas

For Casey Cizikas, this one lingered longer than most.

After the New York Islanders saw their playoff hopes slip away late in the season, the veteran forward didn’t shy away from the disappointment — he leaned into it.

“I 100% agree,” Cizikas said when asked if this loss stung more than others. “The position that we put ourselves in… and then not being able to find a way to get those wins late in the season… that’s what sucks the most about it.”

It wasn’t about effort. It was about missed opportunity — something Cizikas made clear is hard to shake.

“It is hard… a hard pill to swallow,” he said. But rather than dwell, Cizikas is already focused on what comes next. “Take that feeling… put it into what you need to do this summer, and come back next year with a vengeance.”

Even in a frustrating finish, there were bright spots — none bigger than rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer. Cizikas praised both his play and his presence in the locker room.

“What he did this year was unbelievable… it was a lot of fun to watch,” Cizikas said. “And the person he is off the ice… there’s no one better. He’s a great kid… we’re very fortunate.”

Cizikas also pointed to the importance of development and leadership, noting how living with a veteran helped Schaefer adjust quickly to the NHL.

Personally, Cizikas found confidence in how his own season progressed after a slow start, believing there’s still another level to reach.

“There’s a lot to be proud of and build on… but there’s always another level,” he said.

Looking ahead, his message for the team is simple — consistency starts before the puck drops.

“The preparation every single day… not just for games, but for practice,” Cizikas said. “If you’re going to dog it in practice, it’s not going to show up in a game.”

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