NFT: Islanders at Lightning, R2G1, 7pm Game Thread

Hey, so...this is a new (yet old, deep in the memory banks) feeling. Rack 'em up, a new round and a new challenge. On to Tampa for a matchup against a very similar opponent.

Both sides come in with injuries, although many will run with the Stamkos/Stralman acknowledgement and look past the Halak, Lee and Grabovski gap (although Greiss has, at least for the time he's been in the starter role, rendered the Halak part moot). Meaning: both sides have issues, so deal with it.

While TB doesn't represent the size/speed/skill combo the Panthers had throughout their lineup, they do present a real challenge given their offensive skill overall, the redwood on the back line in Hedman and a world-class goalie in goliath Ben Bishop (who has shown streakiness; against the Isles this year, he's 1-2, with a 4.41 GAA and .842 SV%). But those regular season numbers mean nothing as the playoffs are its own season. We may see some more wide open hockey here as the Bolts don't play a trap system like FLA did.

Staple had a twitter Q& A with the fanbase this morning, and some of the things he discussed were:
- Pulock likely not back until after this weekend, expected to play next week
- Boychuk didn't play well in Rd 1, and he knows he needs to be better
- MDC likely called up after BPT series is over but doubts he'll play
- Feels Grabbo is probably done (his words, "a sad situation")
- Cappy's issue with Strome is 18's play away from the puck
- Outside of JT and Greiss, felt Hickey was Isles best player in Rd 1; one of the few that joined the rush regularly
- Feels there's currently a 30% chance Hammer is back with the Isles next year.
- Doesn't think KO returns, citing Free Agency doesn't come around often and he's gotta do what's best for his family. But the chances for a return are better with the first round win.
- Isles will try to move some contracts and get JT a top line LW
- Bernier's solid play has earned him a spot
- Hall for Hammer unlikely unless Isles sweeten that potential offer. Perhaps more like Draisaitl. And Hammer won't be moved for picks; Snow will demand an NHL-ready player.

But we're not talking housekeeping until the season ends. Too much hockey left to be played, more fun to be had. Drop the puck already.

Let's Go Islanders!

Growing up it all seems so one-sided
Opinions all provided
The future pre-decided
Detached and subdivided
In the mass production zone