The New York Islanders opened their 2023-24 campaign last Thursday night with a 3-2 victory over the Buffalo Sabres. It was the first time since January 21, 1995, that New York won its first tilt of the season at home. It was the third time in franchise history. But, that momentum carried into Tuesday evening with a 1-0 shutout win over the Arizona Coyotes.

UBS Arena was packed for its second of 41 games this season and erupted when Mathew Barzal ripped one past Coyotes netminder Karel Vejmelka. Barzal scored at 03:47 of the second period on the power play. Noah Dobson and Kyle Palmeri both registered assists. Palmeri is the only Islander with points in each of the Isles first two games.

A storyline entering the season was the Islanders’ ability to sustain offensive consistency. But, the Islanders’ offense has looked sharp averaging 31 shots on goal through two games, and have yet to be outshot. One goal was enough for the Islanders to squeak out a win against Arizona, especially with the lone goal coming on the power play.

The Islanders have found early success in the faceoff circle, specifically last night with the team winning 33/50 for 66%. Jean-Gabriel Pageau and Bo Horvat led the way with Pageau winning 11 of 14 (79%) and Horvat winning 11 of 18 (69%).

Aside from the expected early season hiccups the Islanders’ defense looked strong again. Ilya Sorokin looked his usual self, a Vezina Trophy candidate. Sorokin recorded his first shutout of the season and number 17 for his career. Sorokin has recorded a shutout in 12.9% of games started since the start of his career. which is best in the National Hockey League.

Next Up

All in all, there were many positives to take along with the two points the Islanders earned Tuesday night. Next up the Islanders’ three-game homestand continues when they face the New Jersey Devils Friday night.

Jacob

Writer for Drive4Five covering the New York Islanders.