A new year, a new coach, a new hatred of the loser point. If the league had ties after regulation, like the old days, the Islanders right now would be tied for 9th, a mere two points behind the Bruins for the 8th and final playoff spot, with 4 games in hand. Tampa would be the other 9th place team, level on points with the Islanders, but with three more games played. All teams behind the Isles have also played more games, not only would the Islanders' destiny be in their own hands, they wouldn't even have to run the table on those games in hand.
LHH Power Rankings: They Really Oughta Be in the Playoffs. Seriously.
