If the Islanders ever needed a winning streak, it's now. As the NY Ranger loving media gleefully pointed out in every article, the Rangers are on a historic winning streak. The Isles on the other hand have had issues blowing leads and losing points. It has to stop.
Jack Capuano said that Jaro Halak is well enough to play tonight and will return to the net. I'm hoping he isn't being rushed back. We do NOT want to see a situation where he reinjures himself and is out for an extended period of time. (Lest we forget that he has missed ice time due to groin injuries.)
Michael Grabner is said to be coming along, but no word on his return date as of yet. There will be no other changes to the line-up for tonight against the Capitals.
John Tavares has found his grove again with Josh Bailey on the top line with Kyle Okposo. The Isles defense must keep Ovie, the Great 8, at bay and the JT line MUST score more than three goals. It's an absolute must.
This is a game no one can take lightly. Should they lose, they will also lose their confidence heading into a road trip. That will only make them come back empty handed. If they win tonight, they can proudly board the planes and feel good about earning more.
Just because the Isles did so well to begin the season doesn't mean they have it all in the bag for playoffs. Their is a mindset that must be developed in order to play a full 60 minutes every night and want to win so badly, that nothing less will do.
They need to be back on top and it needs to start tonight.