Islanders vs Ottawa: prediction for the NHL game

The Islanders had a very slow start to the season. If they had found their form earlier, they would have been able to get a playoffs spot. But as of now, they are 19 points behind the 8th line in the Eastern Conference table. 

New York won in 5 of their previous 7 outings, including games against the Rangers (2:1) and Dallas (4:2). However, they also suffered a defeat to Philadelphia (1:2). Barry Trotz's men found confidence in their actions on the defensive and now rarely concede more than two goals. Moreover, they are one of the most successful teams in the NHL when it comes to defending against power play. 

Ottawastruggle to stay competitive in the NHL. They simply do not have a powerful enough team. The Senators need to buy good defencemen and a solid goaltender, but they do not have the funds for that. 

The Senators lost 4 of their last 5 games. After a defeat to Columbus at home (1:4), they prevailed over Philadelphia (3:1) but then got crushed by Montreal (1:5). Ottawa concede the most goals during the last 20 minutes. Moreover, the Senators lost 16 games in regulation away from home.