Published Feb 28, 3:17am ET by
Alex Dudley - Betting Preview Analyst and Sports Writer
Last updated Feb 28, 3:17am ET
Credit: Shutterstock
The race for a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference heats up on March 1, as the New York Islanders host the Florida Panthers.
Florida returned to action in impressive fashion on Thursday, storming to a success over the Toronto Maple Leafs. However, the reigning Stanley Cup champions have gone 5-5-0 across their last ten.
The Islanders are enjoying a strong season, sitting third in the Metropolitan Division after winning each of their last three.
Patrick Roy’s New York Islanders will have a playoff spot in their own hands as the season progresses. They have impressed in the NHL this term, racking up an overall record of 32-21-5.
The Islanders have been efficient in home games, winning 16 of their 28 games. However, they will likely need to improve on their offensive numbers if they are to mount a serious challenge for the Stanley Cup.
The Islanders have scored 173 goals so far this term, which ranks among the lowest in the East. Bo Horvat is the leading offensive star, scoring 24 goals.
The reigning Stanley Cup champions will face a crucial final two months of the season, as they are in the midst of a fight for a playoff spot.
They come into this round sitting seventh in the Atlantic Division, but the signs following the Olympics were promising after hammering the Maple Leafs 5-1 on Thursday. Florida made an electric start to the game, scoring three times in the opening period.
Brad Marchand was a standout, scoring twice from three shots on goal. However, finding consistency will ultimately determine their fate this term, as they have failed to rack up a sequence of victories since the opening weeks of the season.
| TOTAL | Panthers | Islanders | DRAWS | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| WINS | 125 | 63 | 54 | - |
| GOALS | 696 | 364 | 332 |
The Islanders have been strong at home throughout the season, and they have recorded wins in 50% of their clashes with the Panthers in front of their own fans. Therefore, the home victory is preferred on Sunday.
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NY Islanders
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