The Islanders are in Anaheim for the middle game of their California swing, and it’s a reflection of where the Ducks are and where the Isles hope to be that this is viewed as a must-have, can’t-drop-a-point game for the Isles.
The Ducks are steaming toward their sixth straight playoff miss — remember when this California swing was an intimidating trip? — which is why we look at this as two points the streaking Islanders absolutely must have. (Cue deflating shootout loss in three...two...)
My friend’s daughter, Ava, has taken a liking to the Ducks over the past few seasons despite their results.