N.Y. Islanders: Thomas Greiss Leads Washington Filibuster

From the desk of:  NO SLEEP TILL BELMONT

First Place - Metropolitan Division

Tied Second - Eastern Conference

FRIDAY

Islanders   2

Capitals     0

FINAL

New York Islanders: Look Who's Number One..!

A January Metropolitan Division battle for first place, Barry Trotz leads his new team on the road against his old team, and sees the Islanders through to a 2-0 whitewashing of the Capitals.  The victory gives them a point more than both the reigning champions and Columbus Blue Jackets, along with sole possession of first place.  With a 26-15-4 record, they now have 60-points to be exact, tied for second most in the conference with the Toronto Maple Leafs, no less.

Are the Maple Leafs better with John Tavares, or are the Islanders better without him?  On this day, the Isles have it.

Considering their defensive and net minding struggles over the last few years, the Islanders this season have allowed the fewest goals in the NHL.  Barry Trotz has a lot to do with that, but so does the goalie tandem of Robin Lehner and Thomas Greiss.  Lehner, the 28-year old former Senator/Saber is so far having a career season with the Isles.  After 25 appearances, he is 14-7-3, with an NHL best 2.11 GAA.  His .928 save percentage ranks second in the league.  Meanwhile, Thomas Greiss is 14-8-1 after 26 appearances, with a 2.50 GAA.  His .920 save percentage ranks top ten.  He faced just 19 shots during Friday's 2-0 shutout of the Capitals

• Combined Stats:  28-15-4 record; .924 save percentage; 2.30 GAA; 4 shutouts.

The Islanders are now winners of four in a row, and 12-2-0 over their last 14 games, which includes last Sunday's 5-1 drubbing of the Eastern Conference leading Tampa Bay Lighting.

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The Washington Capitals honored Barry Trotz with a touching video tribute, the crowd likewise showered him with applause, respect, and appreciation for the coach whom just one short season ago guided Washington to their one and only Stanley Cup victory.