Islanders Lose to Senators, Ending Their Three-Game Winning Streak

New York: The Islanders came back home after a solid three-game road trip, but it felt like they were still on vacation. They faced the Senators and lost 2-0, which was a tough blow after their recent wins.

The game was crucial for their playoff hopes, but they just couldn’t get it going. They played hard defensively, but offensively, they were a mess. They struggled to break the puck out and couldn’t get any shots on goal against a rookie goalie, Leevi Merilainen, who was making only his ninth NHL appearance.

Things started off rough when a potential goal by Adam Gaudette was waved off due to goalie interference. The Islanders fought hard, but they just couldn’t find their rhythm. They spent too much time in their own zone, especially without key players like Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Ilya Sorokin, who were out sick.

The top line, which had been on fire in their last game, was completely shut down. Their power play was also a disaster, failing to score on their only chance and extending their scoreless streak to 25 attempts.

Ottawa took the lead with a tip-in goal from Gaudette, and the Islanders just couldn’t bounce back. They played the third period with less energy and couldn’t create any real scoring chances. The Senators sealed the deal with an empty-net goal, leaving the Islanders with a lot to think about.

This loss stings, especially since they’re in a tight race for a wild-card spot. The Islanders need to regroup quickly because the tough games are just beginning. Vacation is over, and it’s time to get back to work.