For the net

On Thursday night, the New York islanders quite literally blew out the “Winged Wheel”. And by this, I mean they defeated the Detroit Red Wings by a convincing 7-2 margin at home in Elmont.

By achieving this victory, the Isles have now won four straight games after a rough 0-3 start to the season.

Offensively, they looked sharp and decisive. Defensively, they tightened up in a way they haven’t done all season.

Meanwhile, Detroit came in on the second half of a back-to-back, and just couldn’t keep up the pace.

Star Performers of the Night

Tony Deangelo got the game rolling with an early goal in the first period, setting the tone for the Islanders.

Emil Heineman had a breakout game for Isles, scoring twice. In doing so, he achieved his first multi-goal effort of his NHL career. He also extended his point streak to five games.

Captain Anders Lee chipped in with three assists, playing an integral role in several of the Islanders key plays.

David Rittich, between the pipes for New York, stopped 29 shots and more than handled his business in goal.

On Detroit’s side of things, Dylan Larkin and Jonatan Berggren managed to find the back of the net. Nevertheless, their teams structural issues ultimately overpowered those individual efforts.

Why this Win Matters

After dropping the first three games, the Isles now have some wind in their sails.

A staggering win like this does more than just add a win column. It distinguishes the Islanders (Hence the title of this post).

After playing with some noticeable weaknesses in defense this season, the Islanders now look to be a “complete” team. Anyone watching them can see that in their forechecking, transitional play, chance creation, and finishing.

Goals and assists were spread among veteran and young players alike, showing the team isn’t just leaning on one line.

A 7-2 scoreline makes it clear to the rest of the league know that the islanders are on their game. Knocking them off it will be important in what looks to be a tight NHL season.

What’s next?

While this win was terrific, the Islanders next challenge will involve making winning the norm rather than the exception. In that respect, they have a little bit more pressure on them now.

Rittich played well, but over a long season the Islanders will need more nights like this from him.

The Isles next stretch includes away games. So how this team responds on the road will say a lot about how “real” this surge is.

And how “lonely” they really are.

It’s also important to remember that Detroit won’t stay down forever. The Red Wings will be eager to avenge this loss the next time they meet the Isles. How New York handles adjusted opponents as a result of this game will matter big time.

Final Thoughts

In a season that began with questions, this fixture offers a strong answer: The Islanders are clicking.

When everything goes right in terms of their execution and goaltending, they give off echoes of their past cup winners. Unlocking a 60 minute performance like this means that they belong at the higher end of the standings.

Contributions from multiple lines, minimizing breakdowns, and seizing control early is a combination that wins games in the NHL.

Now they have to make sure they keep doing it.