Game preview: New York Islanders look to extend winning streak against New Jersey Devils

The New York Islanders are looking to extend their current winning streak to three as they take on the New Jersey Devils on Saturday at UBS Arena.

The Isles have pulled out back-to-back, hard-fought wins against the Pittsburgh Penguins and Ottawa Senators, building momentum and a new gritty brand identity for Patrick Roy’s troops. The game should prove to be another significant test for the Islanders, but there’s plenty of reason to believe the Isles can pull off another win.

Fans can catch all the action on MSG+, and ESPN+. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 pm EST.

LAST GAME

The New York Islanders played one of their most complete games in their last outing against the surprisingly tough Ottawa Senators. The Isles pulled out a 4-2 win as the new-look top line produced three of the four goals. The Isles have also looked good defensively, playing a more old-school tight-checking style reminiscent of the Colorado Avalanche of Patrick Roy’s playing days.

As for the Devils, they defeated the Montreal Canadiens in their last game on Thursday night. The Canadiens have New Jersey a run for their money, but couldn’t close the gap. The Devils cruised for most of the game, despite defending a one-goal lead for most of the night.

HISTORICAL MATCHUP

Saturday night’s tilt is the second meeting between the New York Islanders and New Jersey Devils this season. These two clubs last met on October 25 at the Prudential Center. The Islanders won that game 4-3 in overtime with Bo Horvat getting the game-winner at 1:09 of the overtime frame. At the time, the loss was New Jersey’s fourth in a row. Since then, The Devils have gone 4-1, with the Isles going 3-4.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

The Isles’ top line of Horvat, Anders Lee, and JG Pageau has stepped up to produce in the wake of multiple injuries across the team. Similarly, depth players like Simon Holmstrom and Oliver Wahlstrom have been making the most of their extended playing. But the most interesting player to watch is rookie Isaiah George. George has hit the ground running since being recalled from Bridgeport this week.

As for the Devils, Luke Hughes has been playing well recently. Hughes’ linemates, Jesper Bratt and Ondrej Palat have been running amok over the last five games. The Isles will need to keep this line in check in order to win on Saturday night.