Islanders advance to second round of Stanley Cup playoffs

For the first time in 28 years, the New York Islanders have clinched a playoffs series on home ice. With a 5-3 win against the Penguins in Game 6, the Islanders will advance to the second round of the playoffs where they will face the Boston Bruins.

I can only imagine how the 9,000 fans in attendance feel after this one. I’m shaking with unbridled joy here at home in Ottawa. The Coliseum parking lot after this victory is going to be a madhouse and I’m jealous that I can’t take part.

New York Islanders move on to second round to face Boston Bruins

The fans were clearly the x-factor tonight for the Islanders. The enegry that those 9,000 fans generated for their team was key in pushing them forward in the second period. Those three unanswered goals from 8:35 to 11:34 in the second period would be enough to win it.

Brock Nelson, who was having an ok series up to this point had himself a monster game to push the Isles towards the second round. With two goals, one assist, four shots on goal, and three hits, he was the first star of the night. He probably would have compelted the hat-trick if not for hitting the post after the Penguins pulled the goalie.

That second line of Anthony Beauvillier, Brock Nelson, and Josh Bailey were absolutely magical today. In the six game series that line has combined for 19 points. Insane.

And we can’t forget. The Penguins have been good all season long and finished at the top of the East Division. They’ve also been solid against the Islanders all year long with a 6-2-0 record with a +6 goal-differential.

With the series win, the Islanders are now tied as the fourth-most successful team in the playoffs since Barry Trotz and Lou Lamoriello took over. The only teams with more playoff wins than the Isles are the Bruins (24), Stars (22), and the Lightning(21).

Now the Isles go up agianst the most successful playoff team in the league since 18-19 in the Boston Bruins. Let’s go.