The New York Islanders return from the NHL’s holiday break with a rivalry matchup, hosting the New York Rangers on Saturday night at UBS Arena.
The Islanders entered the break on a positive note, snapping a three-game skid with a 2-1 victory over the New Jersey Devils on Tuesday. Defenseman Adam Pelech scored the go-ahead goal with 1:15 remaining, while Simon Holmstrom tied the game earlier in the second period. Goaltender David Rittich made 31 saves to earn his eighth win of the season.
The Rangers also closed out the pre-break schedule with momentum, rallying past Washington with five unanswered goals in the third period.