Game preview: New York Islanders continue road trip against the Calgary Flames

The New York Islanders continue their western road trip, visiting the Calgary Flames at the Scotiabank Saddledome on Tuesday night.

The Islanders are looking to put the controversies of their last game behind them and turn over a new leaf with a win. As for the Flames, they look to get past their up-and-down season. This game will feature two teams with different playing styles, making it an entertaining matchup.

Fans can catch the action on MSG+, and ESPN+.

LAST GAME

What else could be said about the New York Islanders last game? The controversial goal that gave the Seattle Kraken the win essentially went unnoticed by the league. The poor officiating and the review in the situation room did nothing to clarify what actually happened on the ice. Be that as it may, the Islanders played a solid game. While the loss stung, the Isles had plenty of positives to show for that game.

Meanwhile, the Flames are coming off a solid 2-0 shutout over the Nashville Predators. Granted, the Predators are among the league’s worst teams this season. Nevertheless, the shutout performance was a major positive for the Flames after losing 3-1 to Vancouver Canucks. The Flames are currently tied for third place in the Pacific Division with the Canucks, with the Edmonton Oilers Oilers nipping at their heels.

HISTORICAL MATCHUP

Tuesday night’s game marks the first meeting between these two clubs this season. Last season, the Flames and Islanders split the season series. The Islanders got a 5-4 win on November 18 at home, then dropped a 5-2 decision in Calgary on February 10. The Isles are 1-7-2 in their last 10 against the Flames. So, the Isles will be looking to turn things around in Calgary.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

The resurgent Pierre Engvall will be a player to keep an eye on. He’s scored in his last two games and looks to be building more confidence with each passing game. While he hasn’t guaranteed himself a lineup spot, he could be on his way to ensuring he stays with the big club for the foreseeable future. Ilya Sorokin looks to be getting the nod for Tuesday night’s matchup.

The Flames have a host of talented players, including stars like Jonathan Huberdeau and Nazem Kadri. The club has gelled this season despite trading a number of stars at last year’s trade deadline. Dustin Wolf should get the call against the Isles. He’s played much better than expected and could make the game challenging for the Isles.