Game preview: The New York Islanders face off against a surprisingly strong Anaheim Ducks team

The New York Islanders take on the Anaheim Ducks on Tuesday night at UBS Arena. The tilt marks the first of two meetings between the two teams this season.

Both clubs enter the matchup with similar records. The Isles sit at 3-3-2, while the Ducks are 3-4-1. As such, these two teams are much more similar than fans realize. However, the Isles and Ducks are trending in different directions as the Isles are a predominantly veteran team whereas the Ducks are a rebuilding club.

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

LAST GAME

The New York Islanders had a very disappointing outcome, blowing a 3-0 lead to lose the game 6-3 against the Florida Panthers. The Isles got off to a roaring start, scoring three goals within the first half of the first period. However, the Isles let the Panthers get back into the game, ultimately blowing the lead by the end of the second period. The Isles tried to get back into the game but ended up giving up two goals to make the game 5-3 before an empty-netter made it 6-3.

Meanwhile, the Ducks lost a tough game against the New Jersey Devils 6-2 on Sunday night. The Ducks didn’t get much going against the Devils’ offense, making the game frustrating for the Western Conference side. The Ducks have played some strong games this season, but lack consistency. The Ducks are currently on a two-game slide. So, they will be motivated to get back in the win column.

HISTORICAL MATCHUP

The New York Islanders swept their season series against the Anaheim Ducks last season. The Isles took the first meeting in Long Island 4-3 on December 13, 2023. The Isles then won the second meeting 6-1 in California.

The Isles have won their last six meetings against the Ducks, blowing them out twice during that span and shutting them out once.

PLAYERS TO WATCH

Ilya Sorokin should be back in goal for the Islanders. Semyon Varlamov got the start on Saturday night but struggled significantly against the Panthers. Additionally, Simon Holmstrom will be back on the top line for the Isles with a new look checking line featuring Kyle MacLean at center with Pierre Engvall and Hudson Fasching flanking him. The new-look fourth line will hopefully generate offense, especially as the Isles have already been shut out three times this season. It's also worth noting that Matt Martin is not expected to be in the lineup.

For the Ducks, Leo Carlsson will be the player to watch. He’s played fantastically well thus far for Anaheim. He’s fast becoming the team’s undisputed number-one center. Also, Mason McTavish has shown signs of evolving into a solid, top-six forward. Lukas Dostal should get the call in goal. He’s been terrific for the Ducks, showing signs of being the future number-one netminder in Anaheim.