It’s not a must-win for the Islanders.
But that’s the way they must approach Tuesday’s Game 2 against the Panthers in the best-of-five qualifier even with a lead in the short series.
“They’re going to come with a different level,” Islanders captain Anders Lee said after the team’s practice on Monday in Toronto. “We’re going to have to do the same. The opportunity we have in Game 2 is crucial, especially in a short series.”
Faceoff is at noon at Scotiabank Arena after the Islanders won Game 1, 2-1, on Saturday.
Game 3 is Wednesday at noon, so the Islanders know the series can turn quickly if they slip.