The Islanders set the tone early in this game with a fantastic first period, featuring a snipe from Mathew Barzal and a great backhand goal from Jordan Eberle. That two goal lead would be too much for the Devils to overcome, despite a strong effort by them in the second period where they cut the lead in half off a clunker goal on Semyon Varlamov’s part. Varlamov was good otherwise when he needed to be, though, and the Islanders put the game away in the third with two power play tallies. The Islanders were at full strength tonight, as Josh Bailey was removed from the NHL COVID list shortly before game time. However, the Devils were not - goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood was put on the COVID list, and so instead the Isles were up against Scott Wedgewood, whose last NHL start was over two years ago. Just a reminder of how weird this NHL season is and how important it is to keep your goalies healthy! Read more https://www.lighthousehockey.com/20...-nelson-barzal-varlamov-wedgewood-bastian-nhl
