New York Islanders Honor Josh Bailey’s 1,000th Game Milestone

ELMONT, NY–Prior to puck drop on Saturday night against the Colorado Avalanche, the New York Islanders honored Josh Bailey, who reached the 1,000 NHL games milestone back on Friday night in Raleigh, North Carolina.

In the 6-2 victory, Josh Bailey became just the third player in franchise history to reach that milestone, joining Denis Potvin and Bryan Trottier, two players whose numbers hang in the rafters at UBS Arena.

Bailey was supposed to reach the milestone on Wednesday night against the rival New York Rangers, but head coach Lane Lambert decided to scratch the 15-year veteran a week ago in Tampa.

With the game against the Colorado Avalanche the first game back at home, that was the night for Josh Bailey to get the moment with the fans, as well as his family.

On hand for the ceremony, at least on ice level, was his wife, his three children, and his parents as they all watched Bailey’s teammates discuss what he has meant to them over the years.

"He's given it everything here, he hasn't played anywhere else. He's been here through thick and thin."

Congrats Bailey on the incredible achievement of 1,000 NHL games, all of which were played here, with the New York Islanders. pic.twitter.com/SuBHCOIuKb

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) October 29, 2022

Teammates Brock Nelson and Cal Clutterbuck unveiled Josh Bailey’s team-signed “Bailey 1000) jersey, along with a painting of Bailey, which included a few of his highlights throughout the years.

New York Islanders captain Anders Lee presented Bailey with his silver stick, and then the rest of the team came over to take a family photo.

Celebrating Mr. 1000. pic.twitter.com/ID8zp6YTjQ

— New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) October 30, 2022

With Josh Bailey scoring the game-winning goal against the Hurricanes, he became just the 12th player all-time to accomplish that feat, which is fitting, given the fact that Baily wears no. 12. He also became the 36th player all-time to reach 1,000 games with one franchise.

Josh Bailey, besides sitting third in games played for the organization, sits fourth all-time in assists (379) and eighth in points (557).