New York Islanders vs. Pittsburgh Penguins [Round 1, Game 3 thread]

We know what the deal is here. It’s been close slogging for a 1-1 series so far, with the Penguins arguably having the upper hand on balance.

Evgeni Malkin will return to the lineup to make them even more dangerous (if he’s truly healthy), while the Islanders will keep their same lineup.

Will the Nassau Coliseum crowd — reduced as it is but now up to around 6,000 allowed — give the Islanders the boost they need? And lead to a better start? Will the power play actually bear fruit? (Will they get a power play?)

The series has been feisty but pretty clean and not quite on the edge thus far. We’ll see what tune we’re singing at the end of the night.

This is our game thread, the place where regulars hang out during games, shoot the breeze about the game, trade drink recipes and sort holy cards. Enjoy! (Enjoy? Enjoy.)