Carolina has won each of its last three home games by more than one goal. The Hurricanes are in a good spot to cover the puck line again at home with a multiple goal victory against the defensively-challenged Islanders.

The Islanders are coming off a hugely satisfying rivalry victory against the Rangers last night. Jaroslav Halak was brilliant in goal for the Islanders stopping 50 shots in a 3-0 victory. Halak isn't expected to start, though, in this game. That means a drop to backup goalie Thomas Greiss. Islanders goalies have it extremely rough as New York gives up the most goals and shots on goal in the league. The Islanders had allowed 25 goals in their last six games prior to Thursday. Opponents have averaged 51 shots on goal during the Islanders' last two games.

The Islanders have permitted three or more goals in 13 of their last 15 games. This is the Islanders' third game in four days, too, so there will be a fatigue factor. New York has lost 10 of its last 14 road contests.

The Hurricanes also played Thursday night losing 5-2 on the road to New Jersey. Backup goalie Scott Darling was in net for Carolina in that loss. Starter Cam Ward is expected to be back in goal for this game. The Hurricanes are 5-1-1 in Ward's last seven starts.

Carolina is 10-2 the past 12 times facing foes with a sub .500 record.