To start, I have to say that the addition of Flatley (or any analyst for that matter) in a position between the benches is a fantastic add to any hockey broadcast.

The proximity to the action really gives those analysts a great perspective. My favorites are the moments when those analysts can give the fan information on things like player body-language, coach communication and overrall 'feel' that he is getting from the two benches during crucial moments during the game.

Flatley was so good in his breakdowns, familiarity with the Toronto team and his overrall explanation on Islanders strengths and how they could use their 'speed and puck moving ability' to 'blow by' the Leafs D-Men who were much bigger then the Isles.

His insight into JT's 'intangibles' in the pregame was spot-on as well. He actually referred to Tavares' desire to be the best player in the league as un-recognized intangible.

But The Highlight of Flatley's Night?

In the second period, seconds after the Islanders had just competed a decent shift in the Leafs zone, the puck found a leaf stick and a breakout started for the Leafs with the Isles having bad defensive balance. Patrick Flatley basically called the goal by Phil Kessel moments before it occurred. As the Leafs were breaking through the neutral zone Flatley was in the middle of analytical anecdote when he stopped his story to just point out...."OH..THIS COULD BE DANGEROUS". About 3 seconds later...Kessel pushed the puck past Nabakov.

Highlight Here of Kessel's Goal....Listen to the first word said...."Dangerous"

After thinking about a lot of what Flatley said and just thinking about his analysis overall, if you didn't know who Pat Flatley was as a Player you would have to assume that he was one of the smartest guys on the ice every night.

A Worthy member of the Islander Hall of Fame. A true Disciple of Al Arbour and of Islander Greatness.