Because the Canadiens are killjoy jerks, this game means nothing to anyone.
This one means less than nothing. It could’ve been a heartwarming moment where the Blue Jackets climb into the postseason to cap a season marred by tragedy — dumb officials even stole two points from the Isles a few weeks ago to help the BJ cause — but no, the Canadiens won on home ice last night so there is no suspense left in the 2024-25 regular season. All the playoff matchups are set.
The Islanders can’t be spoilers, they can’t be enablers, they just have to be passengers to the home team’s Fan Appreciation Night in Columbus.
In theory, however, Bo Horvat (28 goals) or Anders Lee (29 goals) could hit the 30-goal milestone. Lee could theoretically catch Horvat for the team points lead, though that would require a three-point swing. Kyle Palmieri will play in his 900th NHL regular season game and perhaps his last as an Islander.
First Islanders Goal picks go here.
Islanders News
- Ilya Sorokin’s goalie goal — which he did not shoot or direct — wins Islanders Goal of the Year, in a bit of suitable irony. [Isles]
- Previewing tonight: There will be two teams, this we know. [Isles]
- So…how many of the guys in the lineup tonight will we be seeing for the last time? [Newsday]
- Staple mailbag: What will RFA Noah Dobson command? Which defensemen will go? When will Lou ever leave? [Athletic]
- Tonight’s opponent: They’ve had a goaltending problem, but they may have found an answer. [NHL]
Elsewhere
Last night’s scores, whatever man.
- The playoffs will start Saturday, with two series from the West. [NHL]
- The Battle of Ontario, whenever it starts, should “be a bloodbath.” [Sportsnet]
- But good lord, the Stars. Limping to the postseason, and now Jason Robertson is injured, too. [Sportsnet]
- Calvin de Haan tried to calm the storm after his aside was made into a big story. “I understand I’m not a top four, $10 million guy anymore in this league, and I might not have huge impact on the games.” [Post]
- Kris Letang had surgery to address a hole in his heart that can only be filled by you. [TSN]
- Brock Boeser claims he’s still holding out hope to re-sign with the Canucks. [Sportsnet]
- As plugged in comments yesterday: Marc-Andre Fleury’s surprise and very on-brand final appearance (barring playoffs, er, playoffs don’t count), in overtime. [Athletic]
- Justin Bourne analyzes the western playoff matchups. [Sportsnet]
- Who exceeded, and who fell short of expectations this season. [Sportsnet]