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The New York Islanders aren't in a position that they were expecting to be in this season - namely, a playoff one. They're in last place in the Metro Division with a 10-10-5 record and 25 points. Granted, this is not a terrible record (they're not the Colorado Avalanche, for example), but it's not as good as many fans expected and calls for coach Jack Capuano's head are starting to get louder, though recently improved play may have saved his job
John Tavares only has seven goals and 20 points through 25 games. Jaroslav Halak is rumored to be on the trading block thanks to demanding tweets from his agent Allan Walsh.
The Islanders look like they're playing better, and against a Blues team who have a sub-.500 record on the road, this could be their chance to continue their momentum. On the flip side, this is also a Blues team who just took nine out of a possible ten points over their last five games. Maybe some focused play from the Blues at Barclay's like they have at Scottrade will snap the Islander's momentum.
This is your morning open thread. Check back later on for a preview from JMill, a book review (!) from me, and your GDT. While you're waiting, head to our good friends at Lighthouse Hockey and let them know that you understand that they're being sarcastic 99% of the time. Sometimes people get confused.