Panthers vs. Islanders Preview: A win is needed

The Florida Panthers have lost four straight games and need a win tonight. However, they are going up against a tough foe in the New York Islanders. Therefore, they need to put forth their best effort.

The Islanders are off to a bit of slow start this season, as they currently sport a 5-5-2 record and are at the bottom of the Metropolitan Division. However, it is also very important to note that they have yet to play single game at home. Over their last three contests, they also have been outscored 13-3. Therefore, they are due for a big game and the Panthers need to do everything in their power to prevent that.

Panthers head coach Andrew Brunette has already confirmed that Sergei Bobrovsky will be in goal for the team tonight. Ultimately, this is an understandable decision, as Spencer Knight struggled significantly in his last few starts. Furthermore, even though the Panthers lost their last two games, one was in a shootout and the other was in overtime. Bobrovsky was solid in each of them.

The Panthers faced off against the Islanders on October 16th and defeated them by a 5-1 final score. Florida will be aiming to have another dominant performance against them tonight.

Some predictions for the Panthers:

• Bobrovsky will have himself another strong performance, but this time, he will get the win that he deserves. Expect the Panthers to find that scoring rhythm they had during their dominant start to the season.
• Speaking of scoring, don’t be surprised to see Gustav Forsling put in his first goal of the 2021-22 regular season. The 25-year-old defenseman has been fantastic this season, as he has 10 assists in 15 games. Why shouldn’t he able to put one in the net himself this time around?
• Expect the Sam Bennett-Carter Verhaeghe-Sam Reinhart trio to be very noticeable out there. They are expected to play on the same line tonight and have the potential to be a real threat on the scoresheet.

Where to watch: ESPN +, Hulu