New York Islanders vs. New Jersey Devils [Game #54 thread]

The New York Islanders are in that half-rest, half-prep, half “we’ll be okay, right?” mode as a playoff spot is clinched and they theoretically can still influence where they finish, but it’s a longshot. A home ice slot for the first round is essentially gone.

Such is the setting as they prepare to host the New Jersey Devils for the final two times in Nassau Coliseum history. Just rest and get through it.

For the Isles, the projected rested/scratched include: Michael Dal Colle, Jordan Eberle, Leo Komarov, and Andy Greene. Braydon Coburn slots in for Greene.

We can’t even root for how the Isles should finish in terms of whether we prefer the Capitals or the Penguins in the first round, because Washington and Pittsburgh are neck and neck at the top of the division. Each are five points ahead of the Isles and hold the tiebreaker advantage.

Other Games Tonight

Speaking of which, the Penguins are home to the Sabres and the Terrifying Michael Houser tonight, the Bruins host the de-JD’d Rangers.

The Capitals are idle, which as you know means they are clearly the Devil’s work.