The New York Islanders have another opportunity to knockout the Florida Panthers this afternoon at Scotiabank Arena in Toronto. After Florida upset New York in Game 3 to extend the series, today’s contest is crucial for both teams.
Although the Islanders are coming off a loss, New York is the favorite for Game 4, according to Sports Betting Dime.

The Islanders will need to play five-on-five to give themselves the best possible chance to win. In Game 3, they took five penalties, including a costly one from Semyon Varlamov, allowing two goals while shorthanded.
Barry Trotz created some controversy starting Varlamov for Game 3. He played well, but that mental error cost his team and now the second-year coach has a decision to make.
Thomas Greiss is well-rested and could suit up or New York. However, if Varlamov gets the nod, it will be his fourth start in seven days.
On offense, Mat Barzal has struggled so far in this series. He has not been his normal lively self, struggling to garner opportunities with his skating and lagging on the defensive side of the ice.
Speaking of defense, Andy Greene has been fantastic in relief of Johnny Boychuk after the veteran went down with an injury in Game 1. Greene will most likely play again, but Noah Dobson could potentially see some action if Trotz decides to shake up the lineup.
To discuss today’s big game, I sat down with Editor-in-chief of NYI Hockey Now Christian Arnold for his thoughts on the matchup:
On Barry Trotz’s decision to start Semyon Varlamov in Game 3
“That was a very Barry Trotz decision. He is known to go with the hot-hand and that is what he did. Varlamov did not have a bad performance, even though he had a bad mental mistake.”
On who he thinks will start in net for New York in Game 4
“Barry Trotz said there could be a few changes today. I think there is a chance they go with Greiss in Game 4. It would be hard to look at the Islanders roster as is and make changes on the forward unit. I would imagine the one move will most likely be goaltending.”
On staying out of the penalty box
“The whole strategy is staying out of the penalty box. They got away from their gameplan in Game 3. The team thrives on five-on-five and in Game 4, that will be the emphasis.”
On the noon puck drop and how it affects both teams
“It is a rarity for teams to play at noon. Fans are not thrilled about it, but these unprecedented circumstances are an equalizer and the start time does not make much of an impact.”
On Anthony Beauvillier’s impact this series
“Anthony Beauvillier has been phenomenal in this series and he is an x-factor. This has been his breakout. If he can keep it up, that will be big for New York.”
On the top line and how they can help the Islanders
“The top line needs to get going. They were kicking themselves after Game 1 but recovered well in Game 2. They will need to contribute today and once again recover after a rough game.”