Islanders Playoff-Type Physicality Has Them Winning Again

The Islanders have been hitting at will the last two games.

PHOTO: NYIslanders

Hungry teams hit.

And over these last two games, the New York Islanders have made their presence felt.

After setting a season-high 37 hits on Saturday night in their 5-1 win over the San Jose Sharks, they set a new season high in their 3-1 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets — Forty hits in the shot department. "

“This is a team that that their D are in every rush. Being physical was part of our plan,” Roy said. “We didn’t have to lay big checks all the time, but just a little bump to slow them down. And I thought our guys did a really nice job.”

The new guy, Marc Gatcomb, led the way with eight hits. He’s been playing heavy through three NHL games, and Roy liked what he’s seen from the rookie.