This is a non-traditional episode from me here at The Isles Faithful Podcast. It's a quick one, a few thoughts as we wait the final few hours before the Second Round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

I know I thought we'd be saying that 8 months ago, right? Yeah.

The Islanders opponent this round - those Jerks from the Carolinas - the Carolina Hurricanes. That's another team everyone pegged to have the season they've had and also knocking off the Metro winner Washington Capitals. I am genuinely happy for them, as that fanbase has gone through a spell of bad times, much like we as Islanders fans have.

But we are friends no more right? Maybe frienemies - or something?

In Episode 34 I talk about some ket matchups and what Barry Trotz has needed to do during the 10 day layoff between playoff rounds. We talk about systems, injuries - and how similar both teams really are.

I also talk about the Islanders Meetup Groups and where you can meet up with fellow Isles fans all over the country and also what the difference in home ice will be at the Barclays in comparison to Nassau Coliseum. We go from tailgating, to train beers. Pretty significant difference.

I also drop a little hint that I was invited on the @Section_328 podcast next week - looking forward to talking about the Jerks-Greasy matchup with some guys who KNOW how to tailgate southern style! Should be fun.

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