The New York Islanders returned proper balance to the Battle of New York and got points in their fifth consecutive game with a 4-2 win over their derby rivals in Brooklyn. Their 4-0-1 run includes three regulation wins over three of the top four teams in the Metropolitan Division.
The Islanders penalty kill was key through the first two periods, no one more than Jaroslav Halak as he stopped 11 shots on four Rangers power plays — two of which consisted of a double minor on Brock Nelson — which helps explain the 27-22 shot differential through the first 40 minutes.