Unlucky bounce in loss to Canadiens tells story of New York Islanders season

The New York Islanders dropped another tough game on Tuesday night, this time against the Montreal Canadiens at the Bell Centre.

Despite the loss, the silver lining lies in the fact that the Islanders did not blow another third-period lead. Both teams entered the third, tied at one.

However, the game was destined for overtime as the Islanders played conservatively and the Canadiens didn’t push very much.

No luck on Long Island

The game would have ended in the shootout had it not been for an unlucky bounce. At 2:39 of the extra frame, Habs captain Nick Suzuki ended the game with his 10th of the season. Unfortunately, the goal was the result of an unlucky bounce.

As Suzuki drove to the net, Ilya Sorokin stopped the puck, but the rebound from his initial shot hit Bo Horvat’s skate, landed on the doorstep, and Suzuki potted the loose puck for the game-winner.

And so, that’s been the story of this season for the New York Islanders. It’s been a tale of unlucky bounces. Whether it’s been with injuries, blown calls such as the one against the Seattle Kraken, or untimely deflections, the Islanders have been unable to get things to go their way this season.

Whether you believe in luck or not, the fact is that the bounces haven’t gone the Isles’ way. While it’s not a question of making excuses, it’s a question of pointing out reality. Had a few of those bounces gone the Islanders’ way, the team could be in a much different position.

New York Islanders playing not to lose

One thing that stood out to me during the third period against the Canadiens was the caution with which the Islanders played. It seemed like the New York Islanders were afraid of making a costly mistake.

As such, the Islanders were playing not to lose instead of playing to win.

That overly cautious mindset came back to haunt them in overtime. Instead of going for the win, the Isles hung back until an unlucky bounce ended the night.

While the Isles got the loser point, it wasn’t enough to pull the Islanders out of the Metro Division cellar. After 26 games this season, the Islanders have 25 points. That total ties them with the Columbus Blue Jackets for last place.

The good news is that only two points separate the Islanders from the fourth-place New York Rangers and Philadelphia Flyers. With the Rangers in a tailspin, the Pittsburgh Penguins inconsistent, and the Blue Jackets not likely contending this season, the Islanders still have a chance to make a run at a playoff spot.

A wildcard spot is still perfectly within reach. However, the clock is ticking. So, the Islanders had better play like the house is on fire from now till the Christmas break. Then, we’ll see where the club stands.