The slumping Islanders conclude a five-game homestand when they face the streaking Panthers on Monday night at Barclays Center.
The Panthers are still pushing for a playoff spot. The Islanders, who will be mathematically eliminated from postseason contention with a loss, have been reduced to the spoiler’s role by their current 2-9-4 slide.
“It’s an opportunity tonight to play spoiler and be a little bit of a nuisance to a team that’s pushing to get these final points in games,” Islanders left wing Anders Lee said after the team’s optional morning skate. “So, it’ll be a fun one tonight.