Preview: Islanders vs. Canadiens
In an upcoming NHL clash, the New York Islanders are set to face off against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre. As both teams prepare for the game, which is scheduled to start at 7:00 PM ET on Thursday, there's a palpable tension in the air with each team eager to climb up their respective division standings.
Eastern Conference Standings
The Islanders currently hold the 10th spot in the Eastern Conference with a total of 51 points, while the Canadiens trail slightly behind, ranked 13th with 45 points. Despite recent struggles, the Islanders are tipped as the favorites for this matchup. Sitting fifth in the Metropolitan Division, they'll be looking to improve their standing and get back on a winning track after losing seven of their last ten games. The Canadiens, placed sixth in the Atlantic Division, share a similarly challenging stretch, also having lost seven out of their last ten outings.
Recent Performances
Both teams are coming off tough losses, with the Islanders recently falling to the Vegas Golden Knights in a close 2-3 game. The Canadiens, on the other hand, faced a more decisive defeat at the hands of the Ottawa Senators, ending the game with a scoreline of 1-4. The Canadiens have particularly struggled with consistency this season, enduring multiple four-game losing streaks and an alarming 8 out of 10 game losing streak after initially starting the season with a promising record of 5-2-1.
Team Leaders and Injuries
On the ice, individual performances can be a deciding factor. Mathew Barzal leads the Islanders' offense with an impressive 48 points, followed by Brock Nelson who has netted 20 goals and amassed a total of 37 points. Bo Horvat also stands out with his contribution of 43 points, although he is currently day to day with a face injury. For the Canadiens, Nick Suzuki is the top offensive player, tallying 39 points. Cole Caufield and Mike Matheson follow closely with 36 and 32 points respectively.
Injury woes have not spared either team, with the Islanders missing key players like Ryan Pulock, Robert Bortuzzo, and Casey Cizikas. The Canadiens are also dealing with their share of injuries, with Carey Price and Kirby Dach sidelined due to knee issues, Christian Dvorak out with a pectoral injury, Chris Wideman absent because of a back injury, and Alexander Newhook unavailable due to a lower body injury.
Locker Room Perspectives
Brendan Gallagher of the Canadiens has been vocal about the team's current state, expressing both determination and a touch of realism. "We have all the reason in the world to come out and play an energized game. Fans are going to bring the enthusiasm, bring the energy, and hopefully we can do our part as well," Gallagher stated, acknowledging the importance of fan support in their next game.
He also reflected on the season's challenges: "It’s an 82-game season. There are going to be ups and downs. We’re definitely on a downward." Gallagher emphasized the significance of resilience during these trying times, saying, "For us it’s another test of our character, your resolve and to grow as individuals and as a group. It’s not fun when you’re in these situations. Three games in which we didn’t get anywhere near the results we expect. It’s a matter of us continuing to grow. That’s important for our team."
Match Outlook
As the Islanders and Canadiens gear up for their encounter, the stakes are high for both teams. With the Islanders favored but both squads having shown vulnerability in their recent forms, this match promises to be a gripping contest filled with opportunities for redemption and possibly a turning point in their seasons. Fans eagerly await to see which team will seize the moment and emerge victorious in this Eastern Conference showdown.