New York Islanders Clinch Playoff Spot on Brad Boyes Winner for Panthers

The New York Islanders have clinched a spot in the 2014-15 playoffs, thanks to a 4-2 Florida Panthers win over the Boston Bruins in which Brad Boyes -- an Islander last time they made the playoffs -- scored the game-winning goal.

In case you were worried (you probably were, based on social media response), the Isles did it while idle, and with two games left to play. They can still fall in the standings, and there are still several different seeding and matchup scenarios that can play out in the final two games, but one place they can't end up is lower than eight in the Eastern Conference standings.

Home ice in the first round is still possible if they win both of their remaining games and the Capitals lose their final game. A wild card is still possible if the Isles lose out.

The Ottawa Senators did the righteous thing Thursday night by shutting out the Rangers at Madison Square Garden. That put pressure on the Bruins (and Isles), but it's hard to root against the Senators given their miraculous run.

With their loss in Florida, the Bruins are not yet eliminated but they need help. Lots of help. Tee hee.