Andrew Gross: Islanders get relief in goal with David Rittich's strong start

"Nothing is going to come easily for the Islanders in their playoff push, especially as they're being chased by the relentless Blue Jackets, who remain two points back after beating the Flyers in a shootout to increase their point streak to nine games."

"But getting solid outings from their backup goalie and not chasing the game is a much better recipe for success. That was an obvious takeaway with the Islanders coming off Friday night's 3-2 loss to the Kings in which the visitors built a three-goal lead in the first period."

"Roy also reinserted Kyle MacLean onto the fourth line with Casey Cizikas and Ondrej Palat after three games as a healthy scratch. Cizikas scored a tone-setting opening goal by willing himself to the right post midway through the first period."

The Islanders secured a 3-2 victory over the Flames at UBS Arena, with backup goalie David Rittich delivering a strong performance. Coach Patrick Roy implemented significant line changes, reuniting Bo Horvat and Mathew Barzal on the top line while repositioning other players including Simon Holmstrom, who scored twice including a shorthanded goal. The Islanders built and maintained a three-goal lead, avoiding the deficit-chasing pattern that plagued their previous two games. Casey Cizikas scored an opening goal, and the team played solid hockey despite a tighter third period. These adjustments proved crucial as the Islanders continue their playoff push while being pursued by the Blue Jackets, who remain two points back.

Read at Newsday