Pete DeBoer learned NY Islanders history and legacy from Bill Torrey and Brent Sutter

When the New York Islanders introduced Pete DeBoer as their new head coach, they were bringing in one of the most experienced bench bosses in the NHL. And even though DeBoer didn't have any previous playing or coaching connection to the Isles, it didn't mean that he didn't understand or appreciate the history of the franchise he was taking the reins of moving forward.

That much was clear in the latest trailer for Episode 6 of On The Island, where DeBoer spoke candidly about the connections that helped shape his appreciation.

"It's a privilege, the history, the tradition," DeBoer said. DeBoer's understanding of the franchise goes back decades. Early in his NHL career with the Florida Panthers, he had the opportunity to work alongside legendary Islanders architect Bill Torrey.

"I got a chance to get to know Bill Torrey when I worked, my first NHL job was with the Florida Panthers," DeBoer recalled. "Such an impressive guy. Took an opportunity to try and pick his brain and spend as much time around him as I could."

For Islanders fans, Torrey's name remains synonymous with the dynasty years, building the roster that captured four straight Stanley Cups from 1980-83. Learning directly from the Hall of Fame executive gave DeBoer a unique window into what made those teams special.

DeBoer also spent time with Islanders legend Brent Sutter through multiple Team Canada assignments. According to DeBoer, stories about the Islanders' championship culture were impossible to avoid. "When you're around those guys, they always told stories about the Islanders and their legacy and the days when they were winning," he said.

Those conversations left a lasting impression. "So, even though I had never coached the organization, through those men, I felt I had a feel for the importance of this team."

As DeBoer begins his Islanders tenure, it's clear he understands that coaching this franchise carries with it the hope and desire to return the organization to past glory, and how much that legacy means to Islanders alumni and the fanbase.

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