The New York Islanders are really coming together at the perfect moment. Patrick Roy has these guys firing on all cylinders. He's got them all on the same page, and everyone is fully on board with his game plan. The biggest difference I've noticed is their mindset — they are willing to do whatever it takes to get that win.
Kyle Palmieri
Kyle is really stepping up his game, scoring goals at just the right moment and and coming back to stop at Cole doing his back checking. He is skating with all his heart. He's like a whole new player out there.
Matthew Barzal and Bo Horvat
Matthew and Bo have been clicking lately. They seem to have a good understanding of each other, which is vital to the success of the New York Islanders in the playoffs. Did I say playoffs? I should put a qualifier there if they make the playoffs. Bow and Barzal have been stepping up as leaders for the team, contributing on both ends of the ice. They are both such hot and talented players. It's good to see both showing up right now.
Semyon Varlamov
If there is a picture in the dictionary of a brick wall, you'd probably see Samyon's face plastered on it. He's totally in the zone. He sees the puck everywhere; his vision is nearly perfect. It is vital to have both goalies playing on the game.
But let's be real: the penalty-killing situation is a mess. The Islanders will have to address the issue of taking too many penalties. They need to cut down on the dumb penalties that are costing them. You know, like hooking or tripping a player instead of just hustling to catch up.
As we head towards the end of the season, every game will be crucial. It's like a playoff game every night, which will only help the Islanders get ready for the real deal.
Randy
