The New York Islanders overcame an early deficit to secure a crucial win over the Panthers, one of only two teams remaining out of the postseason race. The team's best offensive period of the season saw them score five goals in a period, including one from Brayden Schenn (one goal, two assists), and one from Matthew Schaefer (one), who tied Stefan Persson (1977-78) for most points by a rookie defenseman in a season with two assists, giving him 56 points. The win leaves the Islanders ahead of a crucial game against the Penguins, which they have only won two of their last five games.