New York Islanders vs. Washington Capitals [Game #47 thread]

It’s game one of three over the next six days, with the Capitals in town to kick things off at the Coliseum.

The Capitals arrive without Justin Schultz:

The Islanders have Cal Clutterbuck “available” again, which probably means he plays, but who knows? Hopefully he doesn’t boot Michael Dal Colle, who has looked good in his return, earned praise from Barry Trotz, and was among the media availabilities earlier today.

Asked about whether this series would be more 8-4 or 1-0, Barry Trotz said, “I have no idea. No idea. It’s the new NHL. ... No lead is ever safe against the Caps.”

Asked about series like this, he said you treat them like playoff series. You break the games into increments. You make little adjustments. You see the opponent’s adjustments more clearly. Little bit of chess and away they go.