5 Things to Watch: New York Islanders vs. New York Rangers

Jan 29, 2014; New York City, NY, USA; New York Rangers left wing Rick Nash (61) crashes into New York Islanders right wing Kyle Okposo (21) in the second period during the Stadium Series hockey game at Yankee Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports

– All-Star Matchup

The NHL All-Star Game is right around the corner, and for the Islanders and Rangers they will each be sending one representative to Columbus. For the Islanders it will be their captain John Tavares. Tavares is having a good season, and as of late has been on fire. In 42 games this season, Tavares has 39 points with 19 goals and 20 assists. His best moment of the season arguably came against the Devils most recently, when he would score the game-tying and game-winning goals.

Rangers’ Rick Nash is off to a great start to the season, and is a well-deserved All-Star this season. In 39 games this season, Nash has 41 points with 26 goals and 15 assists. The 26 goals for Nash has him tied for first in the NHL with Dallas Stars’ Tyler Seguin.

This game could very well be decided by one of these two stars, who at any time during the game make a game-changing play.