The Islanders take down the Pittsburgh Penguins by a score of 2-0! It was a strong game by the Islanders from the start. After losing to the Penguins last night in overtime they had unfinished business against this Pittsburgh team. Before tonight the Islanders had lost four of their five games against Pittsburgh this season. Ilya Sorokin started in net for the Islanders tonight after a disappointing performance from starter Semyon Varlamov last night. Ilya Sorokin had not played since his shutout victory against Buffalo nearly two weeks ago.
“Ilya was outstanding when we needed him and I thought that special teams made the difference tonight. Our PK was good and our power play obviously gave us two goals.” -J.G. Pageau
The Penguins were struggling offensively in the first period and had not had a shot on goal for nearly the first 8 minutes of the game. Islanders rookie Oliver Wahlstrom continued his tear tonight, scoring one with just 40 seconds remaining in the first period. Wahlstrom now has a four-game point streak, five points in that span. J.G. Pageau also continues his incredible run with yet another goal, his ninth of the season in the second period of this game. Lots of incredible forechecking from Casey Cizikas and Josh Bailey. Casey Cizikas got a breakaway shorthanded during the third frame but unfortunately was unable to capitalize after losing control of the puck.
"He was spot on today... Every time he plays, he looks more and more comfortable." -Barry Trotz on Ilya Sorokin
The Penguins took five penalties in this game which gave the Islanders a lot of power play time. The Islanders were luckily able to capitalize on two of their five opportunities. Ilya Sorokin became the first Islanders rookie with back-to-back shutouts since Chico Resch in 1975. A great game from the Islanders, it was awesome to see them capitalize on the power play. They will next face the Devils in New Jersey on Tuesday!
