Coming into the 2011-2012 NHL season, the Philadelphia Flyers had won 24 of 26 games against the New York Islanders, and added two more wins against their Atlantic Division foe early on in this season. But suddenly, that has all changed, and the Islanders have captured consecutive wins over Philadelphia and aim for a third straight (all in the span of six weeks) at the Wells Fargo Center tonight.
The Isles are half way through their four game road trip, and thus far have fallen short against both Ottawa and Washington. The task on Thursday night is keeping up with Philadelphia's top-ranked offensive attack, currently pouring in a league-best 3.2 goals per game.
The Flyers charge is led by young center Claude Giroux, whose 72 points are third in the NHL and put him on pace for over 100 this season. Alongside Giroux is a cast of capable forwards, including Scott Hartnell, who tops Philly with 30 goals this season.
Look for either Kevin Poulin or Al Montoya to earn the start in goal tonight for New York, as regular net minder Evgeni Nabokov has played in three straight contests.
The puck is set to drop at 7 p.m. EST, and can be seen locally on MSG+.
For more on the Islanders, head over to the SB Nation blog Lighthouse Hockey. Check out Broad Street Hockey for everything Flyers.