What happened: New York broke a 2-2 deadlock to recapture the advantage during Sunday's regular-season contest. The go-ahead goal restored the lead for the Islanders as they pulled ahead by one.

Why it matters: Protecting third-period advantages remains critical for the Islanders as they look to bank early points in the 2026-27 regular season. Securing points in regulation avoids surrendering ground in a competitive Metropolitan Division race.

What to watch: The Islanders will aim to manage the puck and protect the one-goal margin through the remainder of regulation.