In a twist of fate, Tom Wilson’s controversial move might hold unexpected benefits for the New York Islanders in their playoff pursuit.
Last night, the Islanders witnessed the Toronto Maple Leafs triumph over the Washington Capitals with a resounding 7-3 victory. Had the Capitals secured a win, they would have leapfrogged the Detroit Red Wings for the second wild-card position, leaving the Islanders trailing by four points with no games in hand.
However, the Capitals’ defeat means the Islanders wake up this morning just three points shy of the Red Wings, whom they are set to face later tonight. A victory in this crucial match could position the Islanders a mere point away from a playoff berth, with a game still in hand.
While Spencer Carbery’s Capitals unexpectedly reentered the playoff conversation, largely thanks to the stellar performance of backup goaltender Charlie Lindgren, their upcoming schedule presents a daunting challenge. With matches against formidable opponents like the Carolina Hurricanes, Winnipeg Jets, Detroit Red Wings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and Boston Bruins, the Capitals face a rigorous five-game stretch.
Yet, there’s a potential setback for the Capitals as Tom Wilson, currently enjoying a three-game point streak, faces scrutiny for his recent high-sticking incident involving Leafs’ forward Noah Gregor. Despite Wilson’s immediate concern for Gregor’s well-being, the blatant nature of the high stick suggests intent to injure, a matter that NHL Player Safety is likely to review seriously.
Wilson’s history of suspensions and fines, including a 20-game suspension in 2018 for an illegal hit on Oskar Sundqvist, adds complexity to the situation. Any absence from Wilson could significantly impact the Capitals’ momentum, especially against such formidable adversaries.
For the Islanders, who are struggling to end their five-game losing streak and are reliant on other teams’ outcomes due to their lack of control over their playoff destiny, a Wilson-less Capitals squad represents a potential advantage. Depending on the duration of any suspension, if imposed, it could sway the Islanders’ playoff fate.
As the Islanders strive to turn the tide in their favor, the outcome of Wilson’s situation could unexpectedly influence their postseason aspirations.
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