The New York Islanders need to remember a fundamental principle of the game of hockey: it is a full 60 minutes. Unfortunately, the Islanders are falling into a bad habit. They are playing not to lose instead of playing to win. They are becoming too tentative, praying in the third period that they can hold onto a lead. They have become overly cautious and hesitant, overthinking their moves and making the game unnecessarily complicated. Hockey is a simple game - all they need to do is go to the net.
The New York Islanders are overcomplicating their power play strategy, making it more convoluted than necessary. The team needs to shoot more and create traffic in front of the net, which makes it harder for the goalie to track the puck. If the goalie can't see it, he can't stop it. The Islanders are making it too easy for opposing teams to play in the UBS arena.
Let me touch on the more physical play; there isn't any. That may be a little harsh, but the New York Islanders are getting pistol-whipped all over the arena. The New York Islanders have to put the fear back into the game. They have to make it harder for teams to come here to win.
There are currently some excellent and positive vibes as well. Sorokin and Varlamov are becoming a very good duo. I love the defensive game. Varly's two shutouts alleviate the need to overwork Sorokin. This means he will not be too fatigued during the playoffs. That bodes well for the team's postseason prospects.
Noah Dobson is on top of his game. He is becoming one of the best young dmen in the game. That being said, he can not be leading this team in scoring. I love that he is in all-star forum, but the offense has to pick up.
This team is nearly at the top of their game, boasting a five-game point streak. If they can eliminate their "stop skating syndrome" in the third period, we could have something special this season.
Randy
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