It wasn’t just a redemption game for the New York Islanders. Getting swept in the second round of the playoffs was a tough way to go out after sweeping the Pittsburgh Penguins in round one. So that was certainly on the Isles minds as they head to the Raleigh to play the Carolina Hurricanes.
But also on their minds was that 5-2 loss to the Edmonton Oilers. A loss that had Barry Trotz give the team some pointed and deserved criticism in his post-game comments.
Not only did the Isles have to show they’re better since being swept, but they had to show their coach that they got the message.