A tougher mindset, not enhanced execution, is what the Islanders need in Saturday’s rematch against the Penguins to conclude this four-game road trip. And coach Barry Trotz certainly does not want his team focused on a continued effort to go after defenseman Mike Matheson.
The Islanders had a three-game winning streak and an eight-game point streak – both season highs – snapped in Thursday night’s chippy 4-1 loss in Pittsburgh.
"I think, more than anything, maybe we were getting a little too cute, trying to make that extra pass," Jordan Eberle said after Friday’s practice at PPG Paints Arena.