The NY Islanders' biggest bugaboo the last two seasons has been their play in the third period. Blowing late leads has resulted in lost points that could have made a massive difference in the standings come the end of the season.
Through the Islanders' current four-game winning streak, they've improved immensely in the second and third periods, not allowing a goal in either stanza over their last three games - the first time since April 27-May 1, 2021, according to Eric Hornick.
A first in 4 seasons
In the games against the Columbus Blue Jackets and the Philadelphia Flyers, the Islanders surrendered the first goal of the game but that was all they'd give up. The Islanders scored the next three, winning both games 3-1.
On Saturday, the Isles managed to allow two first period goals, but blanked the Carolina Hurricanes in the second and third periods, scoring two goals of their own before Brock Nelson ended the game in overtime.
Though it's the first time the Isles have gone three consecutive games without allowing a goal in the second or third period in four seasons, this time they've managed to win all three games.
In 2021 the Isles allowed a first period goal to Daniel Sprong 1:29 into their matchup with the Washington Capitals on April 27, but that was the only goal scored on the night by either team, with the Isles falling 1-0. The next two games the Isles blanked the NY Rangers, with Semyon Varlamov posting back-to-back shutouts.
The Islanders seem to have moved passed their third period woes, but they'll need to continue protecting late leads if they hope to find themselves back in contention for a Wild Card spot.