After a disastrous and disappointing shutout loss in Carolina on Tuesday, hopes were low going into Saturday’s Hockey Night in Canada tilt against Gord’s favored sons. But with a healthy, balanced lineup, some hard work and a first NHL goal by a local product, Islanders fans enjoyed a rare feel good win and maybe the most pure joy they’ve had all season.
The night couldn’t have gone better, which makes Monday night’s game against a Sabres team that’s winless in 13 straight all the more terrifying. But a win over them and the Penguins this weekend might give us a taste of how the second half the season will go.