The New York Islanders had struggled against the Pittsburgh Penguins all year. Really, all decade if we’re honest. Even during their recent hot streak, Pittsburgh had their number.
So when the Isles earned a 2-0 victory over the Penguins on Sunday it was significant.
They Islanders are now tied for third in the MassMutual East Division with 26 points and are poised to make a return to the playoffs.
Sunday’s victory pointed a spotlight on rookie netminder Ilya Sorokin, who made history with his 20-save performance.
Making history
Sorokin became just the second rookie goalie in Islanders history to record back-to-back shutouts (coincidentally, Sorokin also made 20 saves in his first shutout).