Fantucchio’s Focus: Isles original passes away, Seattle soars past Stars

Gerry Hart, an original member of the New York Islanders, passed away on Saturday, May 13, at the age of 75, per an announcement by the organization.

The #Isles are deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Gerry Hart.

Hart, 75, joined the Islanders as an inaugural member in 1972 and played on Long Island until 1979, reaching the playoffs five times in seven seasons.

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) May 13, 2023

Hart played 15 seasons as a defenseman in the NHL, seven of which came with the Islanders from 1972-79, appearing in 730 career games and racking up 179 points. Following his playing career, Hart settled on Long Island and was heavily involved in the local hockey community. In lieu of flowers, the Hart family has requested that donations be made to the Unsung Siblings Foundation, The Clark Gillies Foundation and Companions in Courage.

Minor Movement: 

While things remain quiet with the New York Islanders, their AHL affiliate in Bridgeport has made several moves as of late, including signing the newly named most outstanding player this year in the Ontario Hockey League.

Follow Andrew on Twitter @A_Fantucchio

NHL Playoffs: 

Former Islander Jordan Eberle scored twice in the Seattle Kraken’s 6-3 win in Game 6 over the Dallas Stars Saturday night at Climate Pledge Arena. The series is now tied at three-all as it shifts back to the Lone Star State for a climactic Game 7 on Monday night.

After serving a one-game suspension, Vegas Golden Knights defenseman Alex Pietrangelo called out the Edmonton Oilers for what he described as “premeditated” hits throughout their second-round series. Vegas can advance in the postseason tonight when the puck drops for Game 6 from Rogers Place at 10 p.m. EST.

Florida Panthers fans are up in arms as the Carolina Hurricanes are restricting ticket sales ahead of Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals at PNC Arena in Raliegh, NC.

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Buffalo: Sabres are ready for the next step with division rivals starting to slip

Los Angeles: Which impending free agent should the Kings prioritize bringing back this offseason?

Calgary: Flames search for new GM should not include Stan Bowman