Is a prime TV gig next for NY Islanders broadcaster Thomas Hickey?

Everyone who has had the pleasure of listening to and watching Thomas Hickey on New York Islanders broadcasts over the last two seasons knows he's a natural at this broadcasting thing. Starting next season, more hockey fans, especially those north of the border, are about to find out for themselves what Islanders already know - he's really good at it.

According to sports media analyst Jonah Sigel, Hickey and seasoned play-by-play broadcaster John Forslund are close to being named the broadcasting pair for Amazon Prime's Monday Night Hockey, which will stream regular season games exclusively on Prime Video in Canada.

The first Monday night Hockey broadcast is on Oct. 14 when the Montreal Canadiens host the Pittsburgh Penguins. Overall, there are 26 dates for next season. In case you were wondering, the Islanders aren't featured against a Canadian team in any of the games.

If Hickey inks the contract, it will be the latest move in what has been a meteoric media rise. Two seasons ago, the former NHL defenseman debuted on Isles' broadcasts on MSG Networks after he was released from his professional tryout (PTO) with the New Jersey Devils. It was a career pivot that may have felt premature for Hickey, but it was one that he adjusted to effortlessly. From the very beginning, Hickey showcased an ability to communicate nuances of the game to the fan at home in a clear and concise manner that differentiated himself from other longtime color and studio analysts.

Hickey's role on the broadcasts quickly expanded from intermission host alongside Shannon Hogan to being positioned between the boards and part of the telecast with Brendan Burke and Butch Goring. Hickey also started appearing on the NHL Network as an analyst.

There's no indication at this time how this new role would impact Hickey's appearances on Islanders' telecasts this season. The Islanders and MSG Networks already share Burke, their play-by-play man, with the NHL on TNT during various points of the season.