UBS Arena should add statues to honor Islanders history

Bill Torrey

There's an argument to be made here that if Arbour is to be planted outside of the Isles new home, William Arthur Torrey should absolutely accompany him.

Torrey was hired by the Islanders as their general manager at the start of their franchise when the NHL executed its expansion in 1972. The Montreal, Quebec native received the nickname "The Architect" displaying patience with the new franchise and showing commitment to building a team through the NHL Draft rather than trading for veteran players to try and win sooner rather than later. Torrey drafted five Hall-of-Famers, Denis Potvin, Clark Gillies, Bryan Trottier, Mike Bossy, and Pat LaFontaine. He also had the vision to see something in Billy Smith, who he selected in the 1972 expansion draft, plucking the goaltender from the Kings. Torrey also made key trades such as acquiring Butch Goring, "the missing puzzle piece," in 1980 in exchange for Billy Harris and Dave Lewis. And, remember that Arbour guy we mentioned earlier? Torrey hired the legendary Hall-of-Fame coach that helped solidify the Islanders dynasty.

Torrey was elected to the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1995. He was later honored with a banner of his own that's labeled "The Architect" and shows an image of his infamous bowtie.

Serving as the general manager, team president, and even helping minority ownerJohn Pickett Jr. buy the franchise in 1979, Torrey propelled the Islanders to greatness just as much as Arbour in the early years of their franchise. If Arbour is to be immortalized outside of UBS Arena, Torrey deserves the same honor.