Episode 82: New York Islanders Stumbling Out of the Gate

The New York Islanders opened up their 2021-22 season on a bit of a lull. James and Jon break down the latest in their first two games of the regular season (00:00). Matt Martin and Semyon Varlamov seem close to returning to health. Leo Komarov hits waivers, as does Dmytro Timashov with the purpose of terminating his contract (7:00). A lack of cohesion was a major culprit in the Islandes season opener vs. the Carolina Hurricanes. Can players like Zdeno Chara and Andy Greene bounce back? The Islanders first line is looking sharp with the new addition of Kyle Palmieri. Ironically, the second game against the Florida Panthers was much better for the Islanders, despite losing 5-1. Ilya Sorokin was off his game, can the Islanders rebound this week against the Chicago Blackhawks, Columbus Blue Jackets, and Arizona Coyotes (11:12)? So far, who's trending up (24:14), down (27:00), and who needs to be better (36:22)? Is the adversity the Islanders are facing after high expectations this season a good thing (40:47)? Is it time to panic (47:40)? This and more including Around the Rink in Episode 82. If you want 20% off + free shipping with Manscaped, go to Manscaped.com and use promo code NHP20 at checkout. #ad #manscapedpod. If you want to participate using the DraftKings Sportsbook app NOW, use promo code THPN and bet just FIVE DOLLARS on any NFL team to win their game, and if they do, you win TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS IN FREE BETS. Presented by The Hockey Podcast Network & Isles Fix. Read James' work at thefourthperiod.com & Jon's work at thehockeywriters.com, and subscribe to islesfix.substack.com. Follow us on Twitter: @nassaumenhockey @jamesnicholsNYI @jonzella