New York Islanders Frustrating 2-1 Loss to Detroit Red Wings: Highlights, 3 Stars

It was a frustrating 2-1 loss at the hands of the Detroit Red Wings for the New York Islanders. They dominated play but still found themselves dropping both points.

The New York Islanders were traveling to the second worst team in the NHL. But the Detroit Red Wings would play their role as spoilers if given the opportunity.

Unfortunately, three minutes into the first period an unlucky bounce off of Ryan Pulock’s leg found its way into the Islanders net. The only positive was that the goal served to wake Islanders up.

Just under eight minutes later the Islanders would put themselves on the board thanks to captain Anders Lee.

It was Lee’s third goal in three games and 26th of the season. The Isles were woke and getting shots on net. They’d leave the first period tied at one but up 16-7 in terms of shots on goal.

The Islanders domination would continue in the second period with a 14-6 advantage in shots, but the Red Wings would score to make it 2-1.

We’ve seen this scenario play out a number of times this season. The Islanders lead in terms of shots but still find themselves trailing thanks to a goalie standing on his head.

The Detroit Red Wings did everything they could to hold on to that single goal lead. They got in passing lanes, clogged up the slot, and did a great job of stifling anything the Islanders could throw at them during the third period.

Dropping two points to one of the three worst teams in the NHL was not ideal. Again, no two points are guaranteed, but the Islanders had to think this game was a good chance to pick up two points.

They don’t lose any ground in the division, but a win could have pushed them to even with the division-leading Washington Capitals.