Patrick Roy is at fault if that is the case. When the game is on the..

In the third period, the New York Islanders lost another game. This time, it took place against the Boston Bruins on Wednesday at home. The Islanders started the third period tied at three, even though they didn’t exactly blow a lead as they had in the past. The Isles had a good chance of winning, and the game was well within their grasp. However, the Islanders suffered yet another defeat after giving up two goals and an empty-netter.

What is the issue with the New York Islanders, then? This season, the Islanders have performed admirably in the face of adversity. They have demonstrated talent, tenacity, and a strong work ethic. However, something happens when games are close. It is impossible for the Isles to end games. They lose games they could win because they appear to lose attention. Now, from the beginning of the season, I’ve had a theory. In the third period, the Islanders just run out of energy. It is therefore a matter of physical conditioning. The last ten minutes or so of every game seem to be when the Isles struggle to keep up.

To be honest, I have written about the Boston Bruins in a similar manner. This season, there have been times when the Bruins have been extremely chilly in the third period. For example, the Bruins had no shots on goal in the third period of their game against the Ottawa Senators a few weeks ago. Jim Montgomery was fired in part because of such endeavor. So, the New York Islanders’ problem is merely a physical one? Or is there another factor at work as well?

Patrick Roy is at fault if that is the case. When the game is on the line, coaches need to be able to calm their players down. When it counts most, the finest instructors have something important to say. They use the appropriate players at the appropriate circumstances. Above all, coaches take proactive measures to address problems in between games. Roy hasn’t shown us any of that as of yet. His expression occasionally resembles that of a deer caught in headlights.