Opinion
3 min read

Islanders Set to Conquer the Sharks' Territory at SAP Center

As the New York Islanders gear up for their next challenge against the San Jose Sharks at the SAP Center, fans are cautiously optimistic. The Islanders have shown a mix of resilience and vulnerability in their recent outings, which could play a pivotal role in their upcoming game scheduled for March 8.


Dec 5, 2023; Elmont, New York, USA; New York Islanders goaltender Ilya Sorokin (30) passes the puck against the San Jose Sharks during the third period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports

In their last encounter with Tampa Bay Lightning on February 24, the Islanders displayed commendable tenacity. Despite falling short with a score of 2-4, they managed to mount a significant comeback in the third period, netting two goals. This late surge is indicative of an Islanders team that refuses to go down without a fight. Their shooting percentage stood at 6 percent and they won nearly half of their faceoffs at 49 percent – numbers that suggest there's room for improvement but also potential for dominance if they can sharpen these aspects.


However, it was not all smooth sailing as seen in their game against St. Louis Blues on February 23 where they were shut out with no goals scored while conceding four points to the opposition. The NYI's powerplay opportunities failed to materialize into points despite having five chances and firing off an impressive number of shots (38). Their goaltending remained solid though, saving all but one even-strength shot.


Dec 5, 2023; Elmont, New York, USA; San Jose Sharks left wing Anthony Duclair (10) and San Jose Sharks left wing William Eklund (72) celebrate the game tying goal by  San Jose Sharks center Tomas Hertl (48) against the New York Islanders during the third period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports

The most promising performance came from their victory over Pittsburgh Penguins on February 21 where they scored five goals and secured a win in overtime after both teams were locked at four apiece during regulation time. The NYI showed great offensive prowess with a shooting percentage of 15 percent and demonstrated clutch performance by scoring an overtime goal.


Against San Jose Sharks, it will be crucial for NYI to capitalize early on any powerplay opportunities while maintaining strong defensive play throughout all periods. The Sharks will be no easy opponent; however, based on past performances where NYI has shown flashes of brilliance especially when pushing back against tough situations – there is reason to believe that this upcoming game could tilt in favor of New York Islanders if they harness this resilience effectively.


Dec 5, 2023; Elmont, New York, USA; San Jose Sharks left wing William Eklund (72) attempts to control the puck defended by New York Islanders right wing Simon Holmstrom (10) during the third period at UBS Arena. Mandatory Credit: Dennis Schneidler-USA TODAY Sports

Fans eager to support the New York Islanders can catch them live as they take on San Jose Sharks at SAP Center at San Jose on March 8th starting from 7:30 PM PST (10:30 PM EST). Broadcast networks include ESPN+ online as well as NBCS-CA and MSGSN on television – ensuring multiple avenues for fans to follow what promises to be an enthralling matchup.

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