Being born in 1980, on the cusp of New York Islanders greatness is pretty cool on paper. I can say that I was alive for the four consecutive Stanley Cup wins and the core of the four, sure. I can also say that I can remember the tail end of greatness, and know for sure being present when some of the above mentioned core group retired and had their numbers raised to the rafters.

But, beyond that - if you were born in 1980 (1993, 1994 as the outliers) not much fun was to be had until last season sweeping the Penguins in Round 1. I realize that I am not alone in this pain. There are fans I have grown up with, fans that I am related to - and fans that I just know via Twitter, the Podcast or even playing hockey that are in the same boat.

But 2020, things changed - with the Islanders making the Eastern Conference Finals for the first time in 23 years. Twenty Three. But they lost, and that's honestly ok because they gave it a heck of a go.

But when I read The Athletic's Mark Lazerus's article a few weeks ago, discussing his growing up on Long Island, an Islanders fan - it resonated with me on a few levels. If you do not have access to the article, I HAVE FIVE 30 DAY TRIAL CODES to give away - reach out to me on Twitter and I will give you one.

I reached out to Mark and he was nice enough to come on the podcast this episode and we talked about a variety of topics. It was great hearing his take on things as a professional writer, one who covers the Chicago Blackhawks who loosely roots for the Islanders.

We talk about the salary cap situation next season, the Islanders run and a whole lot more.

I hope you enjoy it!

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