The Islanders are ending 2011 on a great note, slowly beginning to climb back up in the points race and winning in back to back games.
Facing off against the Oilers on a Saturday matinee game on the final day of the year, the Islanders had an extremely positive win against Calgary that, in terms of general play, seemed to denote a shift in play style after some line changes. They've clearly worked, as all 3 top lines were contributing in their own ways tonight, and several factors helped create a solid 4-1 win over the now disappointing Oilers. The first line of John Tavares, Matt Moulson and Kyle Okposo was buzzing all night, specifically on the PP and a beautiful 2 on 1 with Tavares and Moulson where Tavares spun around, undressed the D and fed it to Moulson who sent it perfectly into the net. A possible play of the year candidate with 12 hours to spare.
Everyone was doing their job tonight, but another Islander who shined in every aspect of his game was Matt Martin, who through his patience and refusal to give in to Ben Eager's agitations, gained the Islanders 2 powerplays which both led to goals. His work on the PK as well was a massive success as he continues to turn into one of the most important role players on the team.
There's still a ways to go, but the Islanders are not dead yet. They remain 9 points out of 8th with 2 games in hand on Toronto. A totally surmountable lead, but this type of wholesome and all around great play needs to be consistent. Nobody expects them to win out for the rest of the season, but if they string together a nice compilation of wins in the next month, they can be right back in it.
The Islanders next face off against the Carolina Hurricanes in Raleigh at 7PM on January 3rd. The game will be on MSG+ with Jiggs MacDonald calling the play by play.
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