Christian’s Daily Links: Let the First Round Begin!

The Islanders still have another day to go before they begin their First Round Series against the Washington Capitals, but others kick off their series tonight.

The Islanders will have one more day of preparation as Barry Trotz finalize their roster for Game 1 on Wednesday at 3 p.m. Trotz told reporters on Monday that Ross Johnston was in the mix to crack the Islanders lineup and that Johnny Boychuk was “highly probable” for Game 1.

The return of Boychuk leads to another difficult decision for the Islanders bench boss. Trotz will have to decide whether to keep Andy Greene in the lineup or put Boychuk back in.

Hockey Now

The Carolina Hurricanes and Boston Bruins will play Game 1 tonight. Alex Thomas gets you ready with everything you need to know for the series opener. (Boston Hockey Now)

Nathan MacKinnon says he’s ready to dial things up for the First Round of the playoffs. (Colorado Hockey Now)

Dale Tallon was the general manager for the Florida Panthers for 10 years. That changed on Monday. (Florida Hockey Now)

After another early postseason exit, there are certainly changes coming to the Pittsburgh Penguins. Trading away Evgeni Malkin won’t be one of them. (Pittsburgh Hockey Now)

Somehow the San Jose Sharks have never had a No. 1 overall pick in the NHL Draft. (San Jose Hockey Now)

Around the Island

Barry Trotz remains confident in his top line heading into Game 1. (Newsday)

The Islanders need Mat Barzal to keep the momentum goong into the next round. (NY Post)

How the Islanders can beat the Washington Capitals. (The Athletic)