Report: Islanders considering leaving Barclays Center early
Both the New York Islanders and the operators of Barclays Center are reportedly looking for ways to either end the team’s current lease or modify the agreement, according to the New York Post.
Under the current agreement, Barclays Center pays the Islanders $53.5 million annually to play there, while collecting the revenue from ticket sales, promotions and sponsorships.
This deal limits the Islanders’ potential revenue in the future, and has not benefited the venue as the team has struggled to attract fans while its games limit the number of lucrative concerts Barclays Center can host.
Islanders tackling many challenges during first season in Brooklyn
The Islanders currently rank 28th in average home attendance among NHL teams.
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The lease does contain an escape clause that would let the two parties part ways after four years.
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According to the Post, Islanders ownership could be looking to move the team to Queens or back to Long Island.
New York (31–19–7) is currently third in the Metropolitan Division.