3 Takeaways From Islanders’ 4-2 Loss vs Oilers

The New York Islanders were looking to build momentum off of a dominant 6-2 victory over the Vancouver Canucks and win their first of a back-to-back in Alberta. Instead, they looked outmatched from the opening puck drop, losing to the Edmonton Oilers 4-2.

Related: 4 Takeaways From NY Islanders’ 6-2 Win vs Vancouver Canucks

The Islanders were looking to sweep the season series against the Oilers after winning the first matchup 3-0 on Nov. 23 but they were outplayed in all facets of the game. Moreover, the recent loss saw them unravel and like the 4-1 defeat against the Seattle Kraken, they displayed glaring weaknesses in their roster.

Slow Start & Special Teams Doom Islanders

Nine minutes into the game, the Islanders gave up two penalties and a goal. With the man advantage, Leon Draisaitl found an open shot near the net and gave the Oilers an early lead. The Islanders were off to a slow start and the lack of discipline in particular had them chasing the game early on.

To cap off a rough first period, the Islanders looked to even up the score on a power play but instead allowed a shorthanded goal. They mishandled the puck in the offensive zone and allowed the Oilers to take advantage with a quick breakaway opportunity. The Islanders have struggled to start games throughout the season but the 2-0 deficit to the Oilers after the first period made the game feel out of reach.

Islanders’ Defense Unravels

The Oilers average 3.54 goals per game and have a fast-paced offense that can overwhelm any defense in the league. Zach Hyman’s goal came from a Draisaitl outlet pass that set up a breakaway chance but it also was possible largely because defenseman Alexander Romanov was caught off guard and allowed the Oilers forward to skate right past him. The Islanders surrendered two goals on the rush and allowed the speed of the opposition to affect the game, resulting in the 4-2 loss.

The Islanders’ defense has stepped up all season and has been one of the team’s strengths. However, against the Oilers, the unit unraveled and was the primary reason they lost. Additionally, the recent game displayed the absence of Adam Pelech, one of the best defensemen on the roster who is on injured reserve. He is not only a great defenseman but also a great skater that can limit opponents on the rush. The defense has led them to a strong start but the recent loss was a wake-up call.

Barzal Steps Up

One of the bright…