The New York Islanders will look to take a huge lead in their first round series, as they face off against the Washington Capitals in Game 3 today.
New York beat Washington in Game 2 on Friday by a score of 5-2, extending their series lead to 2-0. The Islanders have been the better team in both games and have managed to drastically limit the number of quality chances that they’re giving the Capitals.
I’ve been really impressed by New York’s defense in the series so far. Each member is contributing and hasn't been giving the Capitals much at all. Whether it’s been battling below the goal line, intercepting a pass or getting between their opponent and the puck on a rush, they’re making sure Washington’s forwards have to earn any chance they get. Semyon Varlamov has been good but due to New York’s strong play defensively, he hasn’t needed to be great yet.
New York’s getting contributions from every line up front as well, which has been a major part of the team’s success. They’ve had no problem beating Braden Holtby thus far and the goals are coming from different places. The first line has had back-to-back strong games and with Anders Lee finding his game, the line seems to be poised for more success.
In terms of lineups, we can expect New York’s to stay the same once again. For the Capitlas, however, Lars Eller returned in Game 2, while Nicklas Backstrom was out and we don’t know whether Backstrom will be back in Washington’s lineup for Game 3.
This is a pivotal game. The Islanders have the chance to put the Capitals on the verge of elimination and can’t let them back in the series.
Puck drop is at noon.
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Here’s today’s poll question (results and discussion will be posted in a future article):
How effective has the fourth line been in the playoffs?
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