This game was win-win for the New York Islanders. If the Isles win against the Chicago Blackhawks they get some form of pride back for being true professionals. Whatever that’s worth at this point in this terribly disappointing season.
If the New York Islanders lose then the Blackhawks are just a single point back of the Isles in the race to the bottom. Which doesn’t sound important, but it could help push the Islanders chances at a first overall pick from 5.4% to 6.7%.
It could also increase their odds at a top three pick from 17.