Philadelphia Flyers favourites against New York Islanders – NHL Preview
There is no doubt that the Philadelphia Flyers have remained inconsistent during the last few weeks, but they cannot be underrated in front of New York Islanders.
After a four-game road trip, Flyers have returned home where they will host Islanders in a National Hockey League (NHL) game on Thursday, March 1, 2012, at Wells Fargo Center, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
It is a good opportunity for Flyers’ offence to find its rhythm and get a preparation for more tough challenges ahead.
Islanders are presently on a road trip, which is not treating them well.
Here is a look at both the teams.
Flyers
They are placed at sixth spot in the Eastern Conference with 75 points after 62 games.
Out of the last four games, which were on road, Flyers have won two and were defeated in the last game by San Jose Sharks.
The only scoring move of the game came early in the first period when Sharks scored.
Flyers’ offence, which is considered as one of the best in the league, has been struggling of late and an example was showcased against Sharks.
Flyers’ forward, Jaromir Jagr, said after the defeat:
"It's kind of tough when most of the shots from the defence are getting blocked. We have to find a way to somehow get it in. Maybe shoot quicker a little bit, I don't know. We're waiting too much. We have to find better timing."
Islanders
Presently on a two-game losing streak, Islanders have lost four of their last five games.
They are on a four-game road trip and apparently the start is not good. They have lost games against Ottawa Senators (5-2) and Washington Capitals (3-2 in overtime) and are due to play Flyers and Boston Bruins.
Against Capitals, Islanders got a goal in the first period and doubled the lead in the third.
However, they allowed the Capitals to rally in the final five minutes and conceded two goals, which eventually forced the game to overtime.
Capitals got the goal in the overtime and got the victory.
Islanders’ centre, Josh Bailey, said after the game:
"It's unacceptable to give up a two-goal lead that late. Breakdowns are a part of the game, but you certainly don't expect the outcome to be like that when you are up two goals."
Islanders are placed at 14th spot in the Eastern Conference with 61 points after 63 games.
Predictions
Flyers have an evident edge.
The sum of goals scored by both the teams might exceed six.
If Islanders win, the winning margin will be less than two goals.
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