Top Shelf – Islanders Daily 3/18/14

Mar 14, 2014; Uniondale, NY, USA; New York Islanders celebrate a goal by center

(29) during the second period against the San Jose Sharks at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports

The Islanders go back to work tonight as they take on Minnesota Wild, where Matt Moulson will finally make his return to Uniondale since he was traded away in October. As an obvious fan favorite during his tenure on the Island, Moulson should expect a very warm welcome back to the Coliseum.

With the Buffalo Sabres and Edmonton Oilers being the first two teams officially eliminated from playoff contention, the harsh reality is beginning to set in with teams and fans across the National Hockey League. While the Isles are technically still in it, they are only barely hanging on. Realistically, everyone knows how this season will end, but a strong finish and positive development from not only the younger guys but everyone on the roster will create a great atmosphere heading into the summer and next season.

In Case You Missed It

New York Islanders : Best Of All-Time : Round Two (Eyes on Isles)

NHL TV Schedule : Week Of 3/17/14 (Eyes on Isles)

New York Islanders GIFs of the Week – 3/16/14 (Eyes on Isles)

The Deke Squad – Issue No. 7: Lee’s Success, Tavares’ Gesture and GM Meetings (Eyes on Isles)

Around the NHL

Boston Bruins 4, Minnesota Wild 1

St. Louis Blues 3, Winnipeg Jets 1

Tampa Bay Lightning 4, Vancouver Canucks 3

Phoenix Coyotes @ Los Angeles Kings 10:30PM

Across the Sound

The Sound Tigers face-off against the Hartford Wolf Pack on Wednesday night at 7:00PM. With many of the Sound Tigers bigger names with the Islanders, a playoff spot is not looking good as Bridgeport remains 14 points out of a spot.