Islanders magic number for playoffs and why you shouldn’t worry

UNIONDALE, NEW YORK - APRIL 20: The New York Islanders celebrate a 6-1 victory over the New York Rangers at the Nassau Coliseum on April 20, 2021 in Uniondale, New York. (Photo by Bruce Bennett/Getty Images)

A number of teams have already qualified for the 2021 playoffs. In the West, three of the four teams are already in while one team in the Central has booked its ticket. But for the New York Islanders and the East division, no team has yet seeled a post-season berth this year.

With 63 points from 48 games, the Islanders sit third in the East division. Four points back of the Pittsburgh Penguins at the top of the East, and seven points ahead of the Rangers in fifth (the first non-playoff…