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The New York Islanders are going through what by their 2019-20 standards is a rare but real slump. At 0-2-1 and 1-3-1 over their last three and five games, respectively, there have been cracks in their game even before that, and the goaltending-defense combo has not been as stellar and fortunate as it was during their high points this season.
That still leaves them with a 23-10-3 record overall, but that’s now only good for third place in the Metro, a point behind the Penguins and with the Flyers and Hurricanes breathing down their necks.
Thomas Greiss gave up three goals in the first Friday in Chicago, so we’re expecting Semyon Varlamov will take his regular turn even though he did nearly 50 minutes of relief.
This one is an early 6 p.m. EST start.
The Wild are beginning a four-game stretch at home, where they are 10-2-3 so far this season. Though they had a dreadful start to this season, they have the most points in the league (30) since Nov. 14 and are now right in the thick of the Western wild card race. For more Wild coverage, check out Hockey Wilderness.