New York Islanders threatening in the Metropolitan Division

The New York Islanders have won 7 of their last 10 games, and are currently in 3rd place in the Metropolitan Division sitting a mere one point behind their inner city rival: the New York Rangers. Tuesday night was the first night since November 25 that the Islanders did not record a point, as they now stand with 41 for the season.

However, players like Travis Hamonic know that it’s essential to move on from the loss, and to keep things moving in the right direction.

“We gave up some goals, but I thought we did a lot of good things. We’ve been on a pretty good run here of late and you’ve got to stay positive,” the defenseman said after a loss to Florida 5-1, while outshooting the Panthers 19-2 in the first period.

What a streak it has been for the Isles, as they inch closer to the Rangers and Capitals in the race for the Metropolitan Division crown. In the last 10 games, the Islanders have outscored their opponents 28-18, and have won 4 of these last 10 games in overtime or in a shootout.

Kyle Okposo has been a major factor in these wins, scoring the game winning goal in overtime against the Columbus Blue Jackets, as well as scoring the only shootout goal in a pivotal game against the Rangers at the Barclays Center on December 2nd.

With the Washington Capitals sitting atop the Metropolitan Division, the New York Islanders know that if they want a shot at redemption for their tough game 7 loss and elimination from the NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs last season, they will have to continue their uplifting play throughout the season, and will ultimately have to continue to perform in important, season defining games.