Pierre-Luc Dubois calls the NY Islanders' return to Nassau Coliseum one of his most memorable games

Certain games stick out in different people's minds for various reasons. For some, it may be a sentimental day with more meaning for you than others. Sometimes, after a game, the entire arena walks out knowing they just witnessed something memorable, like the NY Islanders OT victory over the Tampa Bay Lightning in Game 6 of the Conference Finals. Then there are games you walk into, knowing it'll be unforgettable for everyone in attendance.

After playing three full seasons at their new home in the Barclays Center, the Islanders announced a number of games would be moved back to their orginal home at Nassau Coliseum. That first night back at the "Old Barn" was scheduled for December 1, 2018, against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

While the fans and players donning blue and orange knew the significance of the day, Blue Jackets players soon came to notice the importance of the day, leaving a lasting memory for them as well.

Former Blue Jacket Pierre-Luc Dubois recently appeared on the Empty Netters Podcast with Dan and Chris Powers, speaking particularly about that night,

"We played the first game back at Nassau. That was wild," said Dubois. "The hotel is right across the street, so all the Islanders fans are tailgating in the lobby of the hotel. And then you have two choices. You could walk, or you could bus to go to the game. You open your curtains, and you look in the parking lot and it's full of people. They all have their George Forman grills and they're all grilling and drinking. You're like, I'm not walking, so you take the bus there."

For those fortunate enough to be in attendance that night, it's easy to remember how packed the parking lot was hours before puck drop that night, as every person had a smile on their face, basking in a day they thought they'd never experience again.

"Warm up is packed. People are everywhere," says Dubois. "They all got signs and posters, a lot of people are flipping you off, they're intense fans. That was probably one of the most memorable games I've played."

After trailing in that game 2-0, the Islanders rallied to score the next three with goals from Anders Lee, Anthony Beauviller, and Casey Cizikas to claim a 3-2 victory, sending everyone home happier than when they entered the parking lot up to 12 hours earlier.

The days of the Islanders playing at Nassau Coliseum are now officially over, but the memories will last a lifetime. While the organization and players know how raucous the fan base can be, it's interesting to hear how someone on the other side of the table appreciates and acknowledges the Islanders' faithful.