New York Islanders seek third straight victory vs. Washington Capitals 2
Dec 13, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders center John Tavares (91) controls the puck against Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov (92) during the second period at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

John Tavares and the New York Islanders look for their third straight victory when the Washington Capitals invade the Barclays Center. 

  • New York Islanders (13-14-6)
  • Washington Capitals (20-8-4)
  • Tuesday, Dec. 27, 7 p.m. ET, MSG+2
  • Barclays Center, Brooklyn, NY 7 p.m. ET

Ring in the New Year

<dropcap>T</dropcap>he New York Islanders play their last home game of 2016 tonight as they face Washington in the fourth of five meetings with them this season.

Washington leads the season series 2-1-0, winning 2-1 and 4-2 at the Verizon Center and Barclays Center, respectively.

The Islanders are looking to keep the momentum going, carrying a two game winning streak with victories against Boston and Buffalo before the break.

The Isles have some hot players despite overall inconsistencies this season. In addition to Anders Lee and Josh Bailey, Ryan Strome has three points in the last five games.

The Islanders are hoping that momentum can continue for Strome, who has yet to make any noticeable impact this season. His former linemates and Bridgeport teammates have been doing their fair share (Brock Nelson 7-12-19, Lee 12-4-16) while Strome is waiting to breakout.

In the Metro

The Capitals have been maintaining their pace, going 7-2-1 in their last 10 games yet remain only in fourth place in the Metropolitan Division.

It goes to show how competitive the Metro has really been, especially with the Penguins, Rangers, Capitals and Blue Jackets playing some of their best hockey early. The Isles remain 12 points out of the last possible spot for contention and as always must continue to play desperate hockey and win early if they want a shot to compete.

On top of the Islanders needing to win, they must rely on the division leaders to cool off. Despite suffering some recent losses, the Metropolitan has not done that just yet. The Isles have to just keep their nose on the grinder and keep playing aggressively to smell the post-season.

Grew up a diehard Islanders and Mets fan based out of Northern New Jersey. Concluding my Broadcast Communications degree at William Paterson University. WP Sportsdesk member, Stan Fischler correspondent, music buff and total Star Wars freak. Follow my social media handles to learn more. Matt Di Giacomo is a Staff Writer for the Islanders on Elite Sports NY. He encourages team discussion. Tweet him @mdigiacESNY and check out his reviews on YouTube.