"The New York Islanders are built for the playoffs” - Former player has his say on the Islanders’ chances

During "The Jeff Marek Show," a former NHL player Thomas Hickey gave his opinion about the New York Islanders.

Hickey was confident about New York's playoff qualification, using their recent game against the Tampa Bay Lightning as an example:

"This group went to two conference finals back to back. They gave Tampa, probably their toughest match in one of those years."

He added that the Islanders have had a great season so far, and from what he has seen in them, they are built for the playoffs. He further stated that they are strong enough to beat any team on a given day with sheer determination and gameplay.

"They have shown that in the past, and it's a different ball game when you are going through 82 games," Hickey said. I agree that this team is built for the playoffs."

The New York Islanders managed an important OT win against the Pittsburgh Penguins

New York Islanders beat Pittsburgh Penguins 4-3 in the last game.

The New York Islanders strengthened their position in the top four of the Metropolitan Division with a 4-3 win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. It was an important game for both teams, and a loss would have seen the Islanders fall behind the Penguins in the race to the playoffs.

The Islanders took the lead with a goal from Anders Lee in the fifth minute of the first period. The Penguins fought back, scoring two in the next 14 minutes to end the period in their favor. The second period saw the Islanders struggle while Pittsburgh increased their lead with a goal from Josh Archibald.

It was almost the end for the Islanders only if they did not capitalize on their chances through Hudson Fasching and Anders Lee to push the game into the OT. Ilya Sorokin provided a crucial assist to Brock Nelson, who put the puck into the net and gave his team an important win on the road.

What's next for the New York Islanders?

The Islanders have had a decent season so far and are placed fourth in the Metropolitan Division with 76 points. Three consecutive wins have put them back into the playoff spot with a two-point advantage over their nearest rivals, the Pittsburgh Penguins.

With tough matchups ahead, the Islanders will look to continue their form. Next up are the Washington Capitals on March 11, 2023.