New York Islanders' April 28 remarkable victories shape playoff history

The New York Islanders recorded two classic wins on the day ‘April 28’—defeating the Washington Capitals in 1993 and forcing a Game 7 clinching game against the Toronto Maple Leafs in 2002. These gritty victories spoke volumes about their passion and will to win in the playoffs and entered NHL history .
New York Islanders edge Washington Capitals in sizzling 1993 game
On April 28, 1993, the New York Islanders recorded a series-clinching win over the Washington Capitals, beating them in Game 6, 5-3, to take the Patrick Division Semifinals.
While the win was exhilarating, it was overshadowed by one of the most notorious moments in NHL playoff history. Only minutes after he had just scored an insurance goal that all but locked up the game for the New York Islanders, Pierre Turgeon was blindsided by Washington Capitals captain Dale Hunter. The behind-the-back hit injured Pierre Turgeon and enraged the league.
NHL commissioner Gary Bettman moved swiftly and severely, suspending Dale Hunter for 21 games — then the longest suspension ever handed out for an on-ice incident. Even following the brutal assault, the New York Islanders remained on course, capturing their hard-won series.
The Islanders' toughness, depth, and leadership carried them through a gruelling series, proving they are one of the Eastern Conference's top playoff teams.
New York Islanders force Toronto Maple Leafs to Game 7 in 2002 thriller
Nigh on a decade since that fateful evening, April 28, 2002, the New York Islanders were fighting to remain in the playoffs— and answered with an electrifying game in Game 6 of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Trailing on the verge of elimination, the Islanders came back in a tough-ice 5-3 victory.
Kip Miller was the firecracker, pacing the offense with three goals, including the game-winner. His effort ignited the crowd and his teammates as well, giving new life to the New York Islanders' playoff bid.
The Islanders' victory pushed a close Game 7 and renewed fervor from the team's loyal fan base, who waited for years to experience a deep playoff run.
The game also revealed the Islanders' combination of old-timers and young guns and never-say-die spirit, which defined them during the early 2000s.
Also read: Lou Lamoriello: The untold story behind his shocking Islanders exit
April 28: An unforgettable day indeed for New York Islanders
These two old-school wins on April 28 show the New York Islanders' grit and ability to prevail in the face of adversity. Either prevailing over sheer adversity in 1993 or orchestrating a melodramatic comeback in 2002, the Islanders proved to the world of hockey why this team is one of the best and most legendary teams in the NHL. These wins have and continue to inspire fans, reminding the hockey world of the glorious playoff heritage of the team.