New York Islanders lineup for playoffs: Projected Isles starting lineup ahead of Carolina Panther Game 2, 2024 NHL Playoffs

The New York Islanders square off against the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 2 of their first-round matchup. The biggest question regarding the Islanders is JG Pageau’s return to the lineup.

Pageau’s absence was noticeable in Game 1, especially with the top six failing to perform. The New York Islanders’ lone goal came from Kyle MacLean, his first postseason goal. MacLean had a good game centering the third line. However, Pageau provides depth, which the Isles don’t have much of.

With word that Pageau will return for Game 2, MacLean can fall back into the fourth line. Here is a sneak peek into the forward group expected to hit the ice for the Islanders:

Casey Cizikas – Bo Horvat – Mathew Barzal

Simon Holmstrom – Brock Nelson – Kyle Palmieri

Anders Lee – JG Pageau – Pierre Engvall

Matt Martin – Kyle MacLean – Cal Clutterbuck

Pageau should help alleviate pressure on the top six, allowing coach Patrick Roy to seek more favorable matchups for Brock Nelson and Mathew Barzal. Also, the focus on that third line will fall on Lee and Engvall, who have been cold lately.

While there is no shortage of physicality for the New York Islanders, it seems that Roy will lean more on his top three lines. Another loss will put the Islanders in a 0-2 hole they may not climb out of.

If the Pageau line can create enough momentum early on, it may be enough to help Horvat and Barzal find room to maneuver.

New York Islanders solid on the back end

There are no changes expected to the New York Islanders defense corps. The blue line was solid in Game 1, minimizing high-danger chances. The defense should remain steady as the Hurricanes will look to pressure early on.

Here’s the expected Islanders’ blue line for game two:

Alexander Romanov – Noah Dobson

Adam Pelech – Ryan Pulock

Mike Reilly – Robert Bortuzzo

The Romanov-Dobson pairing has been gold all year. It seems like it’s only a matter of time before Dobson can break loose and give the Islanders an offensive boost, especially on the powerplay.

The Pelech-Pulock pairing has been reliable and steady when healthy. They will look to shut down Carolina’s attack, especially Evgeni Kuznetsov, who had a resurgent performance in game one.

As for the bottom pair, Robert Bortuzzo has looked slow at times. He’s steady and plays tough minutes but has been caught flat-footed at times. Hopefully, Scott Mayfield can return in time to stabilize that bottom pairing.

Lastly, Semyon Varlamov should get the nod for Game 2. He played well on Saturday night. He’s a proven goaltender whom Roy can rely upon to help his club even the series before heading back to New York.