Mathew Barzal preaching positive vibes only as NY Islanders gear up for Flyers

With the playoff race tightening and just six games remaining, Mathew Barzal is keeping the message simple for the New York Islanders: stay positive and move forward.

After back-to-back losses, including a frustrating defeat in Buffalo, Barzal made it clear there’s no time to dwell on what’s already happened.

“I think just try to take the positives out of the Buffalo game,” Barzal said. “We really don’t have time to think about the Pittsburgh game or even the Buffalo game… we can only have positive energy right now with six games left.”

That mindset is critical as the Islanders prepare for a pivotal matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers on Friday night — a game that could significantly impact their playoff positioning.

Barzal pointed to moments of execution, particularly on the power play, as evidence that the team can still find its game. Adjustments against aggressive penalty kills led to cleaner puck movement and quality chances, something he believes can carry forward.

“Last night we really broke it down… used their aggression in our favor,” Barzal said. “It’s just quick movement… and we opened up a couple great chances.”

More than tactics, though, Barzal emphasized belief.

Despite recent setbacks, the Islanders have shown throughout the season they can rise in big moments. He referenced the team’s confidence — the “swag” head coach Patrick Roy often mentions — as something that hasn’t disappeared.

“We’ve had a lot of confidence this year in our game,” Barzal said. “This team has come to play in a lot of big games this year… I expect our best.”

With little margin for error, the Islanders aren’t looking backward.

They’re choosing belief, energy, and a reset — right when it matters most.