I think Islanders are the dark horse of the East this season.

[Jersey Fresh]

They severely outplayed the Devils that game. Toss in the Toronto 7-2 embarrassment the same week. To say that they wouldn’t be favored vs anyone is comical. They’re also currently playing without Barzal who has some of the top possession stats in the league.

So to clarify, who would you say they’d be favored against?

 

[Pure Slaughter Value]

They wouldn't be favored versus anyone but the only teams that really dominates them is Carolina.

Regardless, I'd rather be an underdog. Less disappointment if they lose in any round that way!

 

[miscs75]

So to clarify, who would you say they’d be favored against?

On paper with Vegas odds? Just Pittsburgh. Personally I can see them beating (if the playoffs started today): Pittsburgh, Toronto, NJD and NYR in a 7 game series. Boston would be the only team truly overpowering them by a large margin. Carolina and Tampa would be toss ups.

 

[Osakahaus]

Delusional take to say dominated the game. They had the same number of high danger chances and lost the xG battle. Anyway, there is no chance they’re a betting favorite in a playoff series barring major injuries to a team. No question about it.

The xG argument is so dumb. You play to win. You don't win on the statsheet, you win on the ice.

 

[SteveCangialosi123]

The xG argument is so dumb. You play to win. You don't win on the statsheet, you win on the ice.

You do play to win.

 

[Osakahaus]

You do play to win.

View attachment 679426

Pretty damn clear the islanders have been playing to win games since February and got back into the race.

 

[Rehabguy]

Islanders considered by some now to be the best defensive team in the league with 2.20 goals per game since February 18 catapulting them back into playoff contention.

New York Islanders Defense Has Become Elite

This makes them a real threat against the top seeds in the East.

 

[TheDoldrums]

Less of a dark horse and more of the first horse put down, I guess

 

[centipede2233]

Islanders needed sorokin to be conn smythe level, and he wasn’t.

 

[Cowumbus]

Their top players simply aren’t good enough and the role players are past their prime.

Great fan base, less than ideal roster construction.