New York Rangers going for three in a row versus the Islanders
By Rachel Nones
About the Islanders
As previously mentioned, the Islanders rely on their blueliners. Their defensive core is comprised of hard-hitting veteran players like Adam Pelech, Ryan Pulock, and Johnny Boychuk. They also have defensive-minded forwards like Ross Johnston and Cal Clutterbuck who do not shy away from physical play. This is obviously a crucial characteristic for any team that wants to make a run for the Stanley Cup.
Another bright spot this season for Blue and Orange has been their luck avoiding injury. Although they had Casey Cizikas out for the first match, the Isles had him back for the second. He was able to generate some opportunity in his return to the lineup, but nothing was connecting with his linemates.
Barzal, a stud since he joined the roster, is still reliably generating offense for his team. Beauvillier appears to be on target to increase his production, much to the delight of Islanders supporters. He and Barzal are young enough and capable to grow into cornerstone producers for their team, if that is the vision.
In fact, in his career 12 games against the Rangers, Beauvillier has eight goals and 14 total points. His first career hat trick was against the Blueshirts as well. Like both New York teams, the youth has been on a hot streak lately.