Key to Victory: Islanders Need to Play 5v5 in Game 2 | NYHN+

The secret to the New York Islanders success isn’t much of a secret to anyone. It’s actually quite simple.

The Islanders are at their best when they’re playing five on five hockey. It’s where the Barry Trotz system works best and the numbers are there to back it up. Heck, even just by using the eye test that statement rings true.

Despite a sloppy 40 minutes in the opening game between the New York Islanders and Washington Capitals, The Islanders outplayed the Capitals five on five. Even as the Capitals jumped to a 2-0 lead in the second period, the Islanders had held the Capitals to just two shots at even strength through the first two periods, according to Natural Stat Trick.