New York Islanders vs. Rangers [Game #46 thread]

The New York Islanders begin the first of six games against two opponents, three against the division leaders and three against the playoff chasers.

Tonight it’s the city rivals, as the Rangers are four points behind the Bruins for fourth place in the East, and have 20 regulation wins (same as the Isles). The Islanders enter the night in second place, two points behind the division-leading Capitals but only four points ahead of the Bruins.

Josh Bailey is expected to return after missing two games to injury. Noah Dobson is expected to return to the lineup after a one-game healthy scratch.

In goal, the Rangers are starting Igor Shesterkin, while Semyon Varlamov takes a turn for the Isles.

After this one, the Isles have three in a row vs. the Capitals before a home-and-home with the Rangers. What will the standings look like when that series comes ‘round?