August 27, 2025
EXCLUSIVE: Original Islander Bill Mikkelson REVEALS Shocking Truths About Franchise's Early Days
Locked On Islanders - Daily Podcast On The New York IslandersAbout this episode
Original Islander Bill Mikkelson reveals untold stories from the 1972-73 season. How did an "accidental hockey player" end up on the inaugural New York Islanders roster? Mikkelson shares his journey from university to the NHL, detailing the grueling first training camp and the excitement of playing against childhood idols. He offers unique perspectives on early Islanders figures like Phil Goyette and Brian Spencer, while reflecting on the emotional toll of a challenging 12-win season. The conversation covers the transition to Al Arbour's coaching era and Mikkelson's unexpected departure from the team. Discover how Mikkelson's hockey legacy continued through his children's impressive careers, including NHL appearances and Olympic medals. Tune in for a nostalgic trip through Islanders history, filled with insider anecdotes and surprising revelations about the franchise's humble beginnings. All this and more on today's Locked On Islanders Podcast with Gil Martin. Listener Survey We’ve put together a survey to learn more about our listeners and make your favorite podcasts even better. Go to https://lockedonpodcasts.com/survey/ to get started. Everyone who completes a survey will be entered for a chance to win one of ten $100 Amazon gift cards. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Football season is around the corner, visit the FanDuel App today and start planning your futures bets now. FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.