Islanders vs. Coyotes: Q&A with Howlin’ Hockey Expert

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Feb 24, 2015; Uniondale, NY, USA; New York Islanders goalie Chad Johnson (30) deflects the puck during the first period against the Arizona Coyotes at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Anthony Gruppuso-USA TODAY Sports /

What are the Keys to the Game?

Howlin’ Hockey, JH: I would assume whoever matches up with John Tavares is going to be pivotal. That should be Martin Hanzal, who will likely be flanked by wingers Max Domi and Anthony Duclair if the lines hold up. Domi and Duke are both goalless this season, so it would behoove the Coyotes for that line to get going.

On the other end, defensive lapses have been a near constant for the Coyotes in their contests this season. Both Smith and Domingue have faced an inordinate number of breakaways and partial breakaways already this young season thanks to a lot of turnovers and giveaways in their own end.

If they can’t protect Domingue (or Peters, if he’s in net), the score could get ugly in a hurry.

Eyes on Isles, MA:The New York Islanders need a consistent effort over 60 minutes. Can I use the same answer again? Probably not. It kind of goes against the spirit of the Q&A. But honestly, consistent effort is a weakness.

How about the power play? It’s clicking at just over nine percent with a single goal on 11 attempts. You can thank that aforementioned Ryan Strome for that one. The Islanders power play was a sore spot last season too. Getting an 18.3% efficiency rating and ranking 17th in the league per ESPN.

And the power play woes aren’t likely going to get any better against a well disciplined Arizona team. Maybe a change needs to happen for the Islanders, they haven’t finished in the top half of power play efficiency ratings since 2012-13.