The Islanders announced Saturday that former defenseman Gerry Hart died at 75.
Hart joined the Islanders as an inaugural member in 1972 and played on Long Island until 1979.
He reached the playoffs five times in seven seasons.
After his playing career, Hart settled permanently in the community.
In 1992, Hart helped to open "The Rinx" recreational facility in Hauppauge and was inducted into the Suffolk Sports Hall of Fame in 1997 for his efforts.