Thomas Hickey joins MSG Networks as Islanders studio analyst
Thomas Hickey of the New York Islanders skates in warm-ups prior to the game against the Philadelphia Flyers at the Nassau Coliseum on March 18, 2021. Credit: Getty Images/Bruce Bennett
RALEIGH, N.C. – Thomas Hickey’s one-game, on-air audition with MSG Networks went very well.
The former defenseman has been added to the Islanders’ broadcast team as a studio analyst for this season and will join Shannon Hogan for Friday night’s pregame show before the Islanders face the Hurricanes at PNC Arena, the network announced on Thursday.
“It’s truly an honor to join MSG Networks as an Islanders’ studio analyst and begin this next chapter of my career,” said Hickey, who worked on a trial basis with Hogan during the broadcast on Oct. 15 as the Islanders beat the Ducks, 7-1, at UBS Arena.
“I’m thrilled for the opportunity to now cover the team I was fortunate enough to play for, as well as connect with the fans in a new way.”
A.J. Mleczko also will continue to serve as a studio analyst for Islanders’ broadcasts on MSG Networks.
The Kings made Hickey, now 33, the fourth overall pick in 2007 but he did not make his NHL debut until the Islanders claimed him off waivers prior to the lockout-shortened 2013 season.
Hickey played all of his 456 NHL games for the Islanders before concussions and other injuries derailed his career, finishing with 22 goals and 95 assists. He played two games last season but had spent the bulk of the past three seasons assigned to the Islanders’ AHL affiliate in Bridgeport.
Hickey participated in the Devils’ training camp last month on a professional tryout offer but did not make the team.
“We’re excited to add Thomas Hickey to our Islanders’ broadcast team,” said Jeff Filippi, MSG Networks senior vice president of programming and production/executive producer. “As a recently retired player, Thomas has suited up with many of the current Islanders and has competed against most players in the league, giving fans a real inside look into the current NHL.”
Andrew Gross joined Newsday in 2018 to cover the Islanders. He began reporting on the NHL in 2003 and has previously covered the Rangers and Devils. Other assignments have included the Jets, St. John’s and MLB.
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