The New York Islanders are set to finish off 2025 on a high note as they prepare to face the Chicago Blackhawks on Tuesday night at the United Center. After suffering a disappointing 4-2 loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets on Sunday, the Islanders are eager to rebound. In that match, New York held a 2-1 lead entering the third period but couldn’t hold onto it, allowing three goals in the final frame. Max Shabanov and Bo Horvat each found the back of the net for the Islanders, while goaltender David Rittich made an impressive 31 saves.
The Islanders will once again look to Horvat, who has been a key offensive force this season, registering his 20th goal last game. This marks the tenth time in his career he’s reached the 20-goal mark, and he currently leads the team with 32 points. Horvat has a notable history against Chicago, having accumulated 22 points in 24 games against them, which bodes well for New York’s chances.
Captain Anders Lee is poised to reach a significant milestone, needing just one more goal to reach the 300-goal mark for his career. This accomplishment would place him among only five players in franchise history to achieve such a feat. Additionally, Simon Holmstrom, who also scored in Saturday’s victory against the Rangers, is just one goal shy of his 50th career goal and has had success against the Blackhawks in previous encounters.
The Islanders could receive a significant boost in goal with the potential return of Ilya Sorokin, who skated in practice on Monday while recuperating from a lower-body issue. Sorokin has missed the last four games but is day-to-day and eligible to be activated from Injured Reserve. Meanwhile, Mathew Barzal will return to action after being fined—but not suspended—following his ejection in the Columbus game, ready to support the team in his usual role.
On the other hand, the Chicago Blackhawks are looking to turn things around after a rough 7-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins, marking their seventh defeat in eight games. With star player Connor Bedard still expected to miss the game, the Islanders aim to capitalize on this opportunity as they embark on a brief road trip, hoping to conclude the year with a victory.
The matchup promises excitement, with the Islanders determined to regain their footing and the Blackhawks searching for redemption.