New York at Tampa Bay

The NY Islanders have star power and balance, #11 in the NHL in goals scored, #13 in goals allowed and fourth in penalty killing. The Islanders have a winning road record for the year and are on a 7-3 run against a team with a winning record. The never-say-die Islanders earned three overtime victories in the first round against the Panthers. The defense was outstanding, allowing 14 goals in six games. Every game but one was decided by one goal. They face a Tampa Bay team that is still shorthanded with star Steven Stamkos and talented defenseman Anton Stralman both out. Tampa Bay beat Detroit in five games, but the power play went just 4-for-23. Tampa scored only eight even-strength goals against the Red Wings. Tampa Bay goaltender Ben Bishop has a 2.08 goals-against average and a .926 save percentage in 30 career playoff games, good but not dominant. The Islanders have won four of the last five meetings, and in three meetings this season the Islanders outscored Tampa 12-11. The visitors are strong enough to keep this real close, as well. Play the NY Islanders on the puckline.