"The Islanders are coming off a 3-2 shootout victory over the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday night, a result that capped a brief road trip and showcased their ability to grind out points. Bo Horvat scored in regulation and converted the decisive attempt in the shootout, while Cal Ritchie added the Islanders' other goal. David Rittich stopped 17 of 19 shots and turned aside all three Chicago attempts in the tiebreaker."
"Rittich is expected to start again if Ilya Sorokin remains sidelined with a lower-body injury. Sorokin has missed four consecutive games, and the Islanders did not practice Wednesday or hold a morning skate Thursday, leaving his status uncertain. Rittich has been steady throughout the season, posting a 10-4-2 record with a 2.27 goals-against average and a .917 save percentage. He has been particularly strong at UBS Arena, where he is 7-1-1 with a 1.86 GAA."
"Horvat enters Thursday riding the high of being named to Team Canada for the 2026 Winter Olympic Games, an honor that followed a strong first half of the season. He leads the Islanders with 33 points, including 21 goals, and continues to anchor their top line. Rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer also remains a focal point after recording an assist Tuesday to reach 25 points on the season, making him the youngest defenseman in NHL history to hit that mark."
The New York Islanders open the New Year at UBS Arena hosting the Utah Mammoth after a 3-2 shootout win in Chicago. Bo Horvat scored in regulation and converted the shootout winner while Cal Ritchie added a goal. David Rittich stopped 17 of 19 shots and may start again if Ilya Sorokin remains sidelined with a lower-body injury; Sorokin has missed four straight games. Rittich is 10-4-2 with a 2.27 GAA and .917 save percentage, and 7-1-1 at UBS Arena. Horvat leads the team with 33 points, and rookie defenseman Matthew Schaefer has reached 25 points. Utah arrives struggling, on a two-game skid and missing key regulars.
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