Islanders Finding Joy Amid Playoff Pressure: 'These Kinds Of Games Are The Ones You Dream Of Playing'

With a playoff spot in hand and nine games to go, the New York Islanders are embracing the pressure — while finding joy in meaningful, high-stakes hockey again.

PHOTO: Dennis DaSilva/New York Islanders

ELMONT, NY — At this time last season, a playoff spot was out of reach for the New York Islanders.

This year? It’s a different story.

In a season filled with ebbs and flows, they find themselves holding down a playoff spot with nine games to go — and that alone is worth appreciating.