New York Islanders Top 5 Highlights Matt Martin Lays the Body, Twice

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TORONTO, ON – DECEMBER 29: Mathew Barzal #13 of the New York Islanders celebrates his 3rd goal of the game against the Toronto Maple Leafs during an NHL game at Scotiabank Arena on December 29, 2018 in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. (Photo by Claus Andersen/Getty Images) /

3. Barzal Goal vs. Rangers

On Thursday, the New York Islanders took on the New York Rangers on the road in what was a home-and-home series. Within a minute the Islanders had taken a penalty and Ryan Strome whos now a Ranger converted to make it 1-0.

We’ve seen the New York Islanders go down a goal before. This wasn’t new. But for it to happen against the New York Rangers in the Garden, and at the hands of Ryan Strome; it stung.

Until Mathew Barzal got on his horse and rectified the situation.

Taking a pass from Johnny Boychuk in their own end Barzal burst up the ice as only Mathew Barzal can, the Islanders Calder winner from last season left a Rangers defenseman in his dust and tucked his effort through Lundqvist’s five-hole to tie the game up.

That what a team’s best player is supposed to do. When the team needs a kick in the right direction they’re the ones that need to step up and produce. Matt Barzal did just that on this occasion.

The goal perfectly showcased Mathew Barzal’s skill set. Namely his speed, IQ, and goal-scoring ability. All three were on display in this single play.