The New York Islanders head to Washington to face off against the defending Stanley Cup champions tonight at 7:30 p.m. ET at Capital One Arena. This is the second of four meetings between the two teams.
The last time they met was back on Nov. 26 where the Capitals came out on top 4-1.
The Islanders are a surprising 27-15-4 with 58 points this season. They are currently sixth in the Eastern Conference and trail the second seed by just two points.
Head coach Barry Trotz is in his first season with the Islanders and spent his last four years with Washington. What makes tonight’s game special is that it’s Trotz’s first game back in Washington which means he will be receiving his championship ring.
A major reason for the Islanders success this season is due to their goaltending. 27-year old Robin Lehner is in his ninth season in the NHL and first with New York. He has been playing the best hockey of his entire career and it couldn’t have come at a better time for the Isles.
In 25 games, Lehner is 14-7-3 with a 2.11 GAA and a .928 save percentage. His GAA leads the NHL and his save percentage is second in the league behind Jack Campbell of the LA Kings.
The Capitals have been struggling as of late. They are 27-14-5 with 59 points but have gone 4-4-2 in their last 10 games and are currently on a three-game losing streak. Washington is tied for the third seed in the East with Columbus and they are just one point back of Toronto for the second seed.
Washington’s goaltender, Braden Holtby has missed the last two games after having to leave last Saturday night’s contest due to an injury. Holtby was getting ready to save a shot when the stick of Columbus’ Cam Atkinson slide through Holtby’s mask and made contact near his eyes.
His status is uncertain for tonight’s contest with the Islanders.
Tonight’s matchup between the Islanders and the Capitals will be featured on ESPN+. With an Eastern Conference as tight as it is, every game and every point counts. Tune in to see who will come out victorious!
Scroll down for a free trial and how to catch all the action:
Islanders vs. Capitals 1/18/19 free live stream, ESPN+ viewing information
Date: Friday, Jan. 18
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
TV: MSG Networks (Islanders broadcast), NBC Sports Washington (Capitals broadcast)
Live Stream: ESPN+ free trial
