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New York Islanders: 5 Predictions for Second-Round of NHL Playoffs

By Nick Ziegler

Apr 4, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders left wing Matt Martin (17) reacts after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 4, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders left wing Matt Martin (17) reacts after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning during the second period at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Brad Penner-USA TODAY Sports /
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Apr 24, 2016; Brooklyn, NY, USA; New York Islanders center Casey Cizikas (53) congratulates winning goaltender Thomas Greiss (1) after the Islanders defeated the Panthers in game six of the first round of the 2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Barclays Center. The Islanders defeated the Panthers 2-1 to win the series four games to two. Mandatory Credit: Andy Marlin-USA TODAY Sports /

– Greiss shines

The first-round was all about the rise of Greiss for the Islanders, as he became nationally known after his great series against the Panthers. Fans in New York knew Greiss was capable of replacing Halak in the postseason, and he proved them all right with some outstanding games.

Overall, the Islanders were pretty sloppy with the puck against the Panthers, as a lot of turnovers led to great opportunities for the Panthers, and big saves from Greiss. In the first-round, Greiss totaled a 4-2 record, 1.79 GAA, and a .944 save percentage in just over 72 minutes per game.

Greiss totaled more than 40 saves three times in the series, as the Panthers’ puck possession in some games led to a lot of shots on Greiss. In the two biggest games of the series, Greiss was at his best. In the double-overtime win in Game 5, Greiss made 47 saves on 48 shots and was on the ice for an hour and a half.

In the clinching Game 6, Greiss was amazing once again, as he stopped 41 of 42 shots. The Lightning still have a good offense even with Stamkos, but getting a puck past Greiss is going to be an extremely difficult thing to do.

Prediction: 2.10 GAA, .930 save percentage in the series.

Next: Can JT repeat?

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