RALEIGH , N.C. — The template of success under Lou Lamoriello and Barry Trotz has been established, the baseline of accountability and work ethic etched now into the logo made famous by the dynasty teams.
But even though there is so much of which to be proud, the Islanders lost not only a series when they were swept out of Round Two with Friday’s 5-2 defeat to the Rock Candy Canes, they lost a massive opportunity to, you know, actually compete for the Stanley Cup in this year when it is possible that four wild cards will advance to the conference finals.