Scouting the Enemy: New York Islanders

Record: 18-35-6

Leading scorers: Michael Streit (11G, 31A), Bill Guerin (16G, 19A)

Blogs: Lighthouse Hockey

Dan Bylsma has another shot at registering a win over the New York Islanders tonight, just nine days after his coaching debut.  You may recall the 3-2 shootout loss on February 16, the first game with Bylsma at the helm. With a bit more time under his belt and a few practices registered with the team, it's time for the Pens to shoot out of the gate.

There's more control this time around for team and coach.  Bylsma received a phone call at 7pm on February 15 advising him to pack a bag and head off to Long Island for the following day's 2:00 start.  Needless to say, all preparation was thrown out the window. 

The Islanders have gone 2-2 since last week's meeting.  During that span, goalie Yann Danis registered a 40-save, 4-0 shutout against the Devils.  No word yet whether or not he'll get the nod tonight, but when you consider he's coming off a shutout it's highly likely.

The Pens need a win tonight with hopes of kicking off the five-game road trip on a high note.  It won't be easy, as both Ryan Whitney and Sidney Crosby are out of the lineup.  Let's see if Evgeni Malkin and Petr Sykora can pick up the slack.

Join the open thread tonight at 7:30.