5 Bold Predictions: New York Rangers vs. New York Islanders

Feb 16, 2015; Uniondale, NY, USA; New York Islanders center John Tavares (91) plays the puck in front of New York Rangers goalie Cam Talbot (33) during the first period at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports

– JT continues great play

One of the reasons the Islanders have been able to survive without Kyle Okposo is because of their captain John Tavares elevating his play. Tavares is right in the mix for the MVP this season with the Islanders’ success, and also that he is battling for the NHL points lead.

Prior to the Islanders game against the Maple Leafs, Tavares has points in eight of the Islanders’ last 10 games. In those 10 games, Tavares has 14 points with five goals and nine assists. Tavares has kept the Islanders’ first-line playing well with Anders Lee and Josh Bailey both having great seasons. Tavares is one of the best players in the NHL, and will be a focal point of the Rangers’ defensive strategy.

If the Islanders are going to beat the Rangers, it will likely be due to a big performance from Tavares, as he has been locked in, resulting in some of the best hockey in his career.

Next: Who Wins?