The Islanders have picked up their game going 3-1 in their last four games with the lone loss during this span coming in a shootout loss to the Penguins following a late Pittsburgh goal in regulation. The Islanders have their confidence back up after upsetting the Bruins in their last game, 4-2, this past Saturday. 
Because of COVID-19, the Sabres have yet to play this month. Buffalo finally is back in action, but will be without defensemen Rasmus Ristolainen, Jake McCabe and Brandon Montour along with forwards Dylan Cozens and Tobias Rieder. All are in COVID protocols. 
The Sabres have a losing home record. They entered their long layoff having allowed at least three goals in five of their last six games. 
The Islanders have dominated this series winning eight of the past 10 times.