Islanders Lose to Oilers in OT as Playoff Hopes Dwindle

Leon Draisaitl's overtime goal highlights New York's ongoing scoring struggles in a critical playoff race.

The New York Islanders fell 2-1 to the Edmonton Oilers in overtime, marking their third consecutive loss and leaving them four points out of the Eastern Conference's final wild-card spot with 17 games remaining.
Leon Draisaitl scored both goals for the Oilers, including the game-winner at 3:53 of overtime, while Ilya Sorokin's 33 saves kept the Islanders competitive in the game.
Bo Horvat scored the Islanders' lone goal early in the third period, but the team continues to struggle offensively, with only three goals in their last three games since trading star center Brock Nelson.
The Islanders' lack of scoring depth has been exacerbated by injuries and lineup adjustments, with key players like Kyle Palmieri and Anthony Duclair failing to fill the offensive void.
The loss leaves the Islanders in a precarious position as they prepare to host the defending Stanley Cup champion Florida Panthers in their next game, while playoff rivals Columbus and the Rangers play on Saturday, potentially widening the gap.