Bo Horvat Returns to Vancouver Ice for the First Time Since Joining the Islanders

Bo Horvat, the 28-year-old center with a knack for goals and a heart full of memories, is gearing up for a night that’s more than just another game on the ice. This Wednesday, he’ll step onto the familiar grounds of Rogers Arena, facing the Vancouver Canucks for the first time since donning the New York Islanders jersey. And oh boy, is he in for a rollercoaster of emotions.

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Bo Horvat’s Emotional Homecoming: A Canucks Reunion

“It’s always in the back of my mind,” Horvat admitted, flashing a grin that hinted at the impending mix of excitement and nostalgia. “It’s going to be an emotional night. I had a lot of great memories in Vancouver, so to revisit the city, it’s going to be a little weird going into the visitors’ dressing room. But I had so many great memories there, it’s going to be a fun night.”

For Horvat, this season is more than just a trip down memory lane. The Islanders, facing a losing streak that’s about as pleasant as a cold rink seat, need a boost. And guess who’s delivering? Bo Horvat, now comfortably nestled in the Big Apple, is second on the Islanders’ scoreboard with 11 points in 13 games. Talk about settling in with style.

From Canucks Glory to Islanders Story: Bo Horvat’s Journey

Last season, things weren’t as peachy for Horvat. He had his fair share of struggles adapting to the Islanders’ ways, a feeling not too dissimilar from learning to navigate the chaotic streets of New York City. “It was tough,” he admitted, “To finally be settled and everything and get a camp under my belt, it definitely feels nice to start that way.”

But let’s rewind a bit. Bo Horvat had a whole saga with the Canucks, spending nine seasons in Vancouver and becoming a local legend. Sure, the Canucks might have had their share of “dog days” during the rebuild, but there were also some golden moments. Like that one time they reached the second round of the playoffs before bowing out to the Vegas Golden Knights in 2020. Good times.

Settling In Style: Bo Horvat’s Impact on the Islanders

“We had some good years but also had some dog days there with the rebuild and everything,” Horvat chuckled, reflecting on his time in Vancouver. “There were a lot of great memories there, have some great friends and I started my family there. It’ll always hold a special place in my heart.”

But then came the trade. The Canucks were rebuilding, and with Horvat’s contract on its last legs, they decided to ship him off to the Islanders. It wasn’t a shocker, but it still meant packing up his hockey bags and heading across the continent with wife Holly, their 3-year-old son Gunnar, and 18-month-old daughter Tulsa. That’s a lot of tiny jerseys to manage.

The Pressure and Pleasure: Bo Horvat’s Shift from Vancouver to New York

And let’s not forget the pressure. Signing an eight-year contract is no small feat, and Horvat felt the weight of it. “You hear stories and different situations of guys getting traded, but until you actually go through it, it’s a lot different,” he confessed. “You try not to let it affect you, but when you’re worrying about different other things such as your family and living and all that, it takes a toll on you.”

On the ice, adapting to the Islanders’ system was like trying to master the subway map. It took time. Off it, Horvat and his family felt like tourists in Long Island, living in a hotel until playoffs beckoned them to an apartment. Talk about a hockey adventure.

Hockey Adventure: Bo Horvat’s On-Ice Evolution with the Islanders

But here’s the kicker—Horvat’s defensive prowess, face-off wizardry, and all-around contribution earned him some serious kudos from Coach Lane Lambert. “Totally underappreciated,” Lambert said, as if he’d just discovered a hidden gem.

This season, though, it’s a different Horvat. With a settled family and a more familiar on-ice dance, he’s creating chances and using his speed to the Islanders’ advantage. Even Horvat himself can’t deny the good vibes. “Obviously, when the puck is going in, it definitely feels good to be part of that,” he grinned, reminding us all that even hockey pros love scoring goals.

Beyond the Ice: Bo Horvat’s Long Island Connection and Family Stability

And speaking of settling, Horvat’s not just finding his groove on the ice. Moving into a house with the family has given them that ‘home away from home’ feeling. Sure, they’re still exploring the local hangouts, but with an eight-year contract, they’ve got time. “That’s huge for my family,” Horvat emphasized. “Long Island is just such a great family spot for us, and we love it so far and can’t wait to spend another eight years here.”

So, as Bo Horvat laces up for his return to Vancouver, it’s not just a game—it’s a reunion with a city that holds a piece of his heart. Get ready for a night of hockey, nostalgia, and maybe a few more goals from the guy who’s making New York feel like home.