The Upshot: NY Islanders swept by Detroit Red Wings in frustrating season series

HOW IT HAPPENED

The Detroit Red Wings have been a thorn in the side of the NY Islanders all season long, sweeping the season series with a 3-2 win last night. The Islanders blew another third period lead, and the second straight against the Wings. Anders Lee got the Isles on the board first, beating Alex Lyon for his eighth of the season, but Moritz Seider knotted things up before intermission. Kyle Palmieri gave the Isles the lead heading into the final stanza with his team-leading tenth goal, but Dylan Larkin and Lucas Raymond finished the Isles off with third period goals.

WHAT WENT RIGHT

It looked like a typical Islanders game we’ve seen all season - not allowing many chances through two periods but unable to close it out in the third. The line of Nelson, Palmieri, and Tsyplakov was buzzing most of the night as they found their groove once again. The penalty kill has been strong lately, killing all three Detroit opportunities. 

WHAT WENT WRONG

It’s the same old song and dance. Put yourself in a position to win but can’t slam the door. There’s not much to say as it’s a mental issue with the Islanders that they need to overcome if they hope to be relevant this season.

Alexander Romanov missed the game but should be back tomorrow night as it was through sickness, not injury.

STATS OF THE GAME

Isaiah George recorded his first NHL point, getting a puck through traffic, and was eventually slammed home by Palmieri. 

The Isles lead the league with six blown third period leads that resulted in losses, most in the league by three.

The Islanders have now allowed 33 third period goals while allowing just 14 in each of the first two periods

SOCIAL MEDIA MOMENT OF THE GAME

Brock Nelson gathered the puck after George’s first career point, but his toss to the bench nearly took out Casey Cizikas.

WHAT’S NEXT

The Islanders host the Bruins on Thanksgiving Eve. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:30 pm.