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Weird Islanders: The Podcast! – Olli Jokinen (with guest David Skurnik)

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Word to future NHL general managers: Don’t call one of your prime prospects fat during his first training camp with your team.

Joined by David Skurnik of Skurnik Wines and The Pinot Project, Mike and Dan remember the short Long Island stint of “superstar journeyman” Olli Jokinen.

Jokinen arrived and left in two of the worst trades in Islanders history. In between, he was ridiculed by his general manager, dismissed by fans, endured long slumps and trade rumors, and only finally came alive after it was too late. Once free of the Islanders, he found his game in Florida, then began a decade-long tour through the NHL before coming back into the Islanders’ orbit as a coach… for a prospect who was also traded.

David tells us his philosophy on the wine business, how kids birthday parties at Nassau Coliseum could easily get ruined and how a small bounce here or there can really change a team’s fortunes.

Thanks so much to David for coming on. Needless to say we’re fans of him and his wines, so be sure to pick up some Pinot Project bottles for your next party (but only if you’re 21 or older).

WEIRD BONUS MATERIAL!

  • This Sports Illustrated article sums up Jokinen’s evolution from trade throw-in to bust to All Star.
  • Of course, we said we were gonna talk about the “Olli Jokinen Waffles” gif and then we didn’t. If you don’t know what I’m talking about, here you go:
Olli loves Waffles

What makes a “Weird Islander?”

We’re always open to suggestions about other Weird Islanders to discuss. Remember the criteria. Candidates must fulfill one of the two of the following:

  • Played one (1) season or less for the Islanders or very short stints over multiple seasons.
  • Be a veteran NHLer who is not generally associated with his time on Islanders.

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Visit our friends!

  • Vintage Ice Hockey for t-shirts, hoodies and jerseys with hundreds of classic hockey logos, and our Al Arbour and The Island merch which benefit dementia research. Use the code ANXIETY20 to save 20% off an order of two items.
  • The Pinot Project has Rosé, Pinot Grigio and a Pinot Noir that was named a 2022 Top 100 Best Buy by Wine Enthusiast Magazine. All are under $15 a bottle and are available at local wine shops and at UBS Arena.
  • Islanders Anxiety podcasts are part of the Fans First Sports Network (@FansFirstSN).
  • Theme song: “Knuckles” by Björn Falk. Hear more of his music on Spotify and at Bandcamp.
  • Drum sfx via Zapsplat.com. Jingle bell sfx also via ZapSplat.

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