New York Islanders Playoff Chances Jump Significantly

After a comfortable 4-1 win over the Oilers, the New York Islanders saw a huge jump in their chances of making the playoffs. It’s too early to say they’re in, but it’s looking good.

With that win over Edmonton last night the New York Islanders took their tally on this franchise record nine-game road trip to 4-2-1. Outstanding considering they were one of the worst road teams in the league before hand.

Before being kicked out of the Barclays for the Ringling Brother’s Circus, the Isles were 7-13-4 on the road.

That dramatic change in form on the road has helped the Islanders move from playoff maybe’s to playoff likely’s…it sounded better in my head.

New York Islanders

From the Bottom to the Top-ish

Just look at how the Isles playoff chances nosedived and then rebounded just as quickly. By mid-December, you could have safely assumed that the Isles were well out of the race. Destined to be one of the few bonafide sellers at the trade deadline.

But then a coaching change was made and everything got much much better.

Where once the Isles were in the single digits when it came to odds of making the post-season, they now sit just below 60%. It’s remarkable the turnaround that’s taken place.

I certainly wasn’t on team Weight when it was announced he was going to take over for Jack Capuano. I didn’t think his “new” voice would have been enough to get this team to gel and work.

I’ve had to eat those words over the weeks. Since being appointed Weight hasn’t done anything but win. (And sometimes lose in terribly humiliating fashion). It’s hard not say that coaching is what’s turned this team around.

After Last Night

After Wednesday’s three games, the Isles chances fell by 2.6%, because both Ottawa and Boston won, putting pressure on the Isles should either of those teams fall into a wild-card spot. However, unlikely of a scenario that might be.

But, with a game tonight against the hobbling Vancouver Canucks, who are 3-5-2 in their last ten, a win could put them above the 60% mark.

Next: Islanders Top 5 Prospects Today

Every day things seem to get better for the Isles chances. Their form is still a bit patchy, trading two wins for a loss on average recently. But at this point, just getting to the playoffs is all that matters. Once you get there, there’s always a chance to win it. Even though ClubStats give the Isles a 0.2% chance of winning the cup.