Josh Bailey has played 44 career games vs the Rangers over his 10-plus years with the Islanders and to this day, they still get him revved up.
"Of course they do, ones you always look forward to when you see them on the schedule," Bailey said. "Whether it be at home or at MSG here, it's always a good rivalry game and you always look forward to."
The Islanders are enjoying their most successful stretch since Bailey's been with the team, winning a franchise-best eight straight, as well as 12 of the 13 and three straight at the Garden. Bailey said it's hard to pinpoint the reasons for the sustained success, as the Islanders take it game by game.
"It's another game and a big one for us," Bailey said. "When you get in these situations you just want to roll with it as long as you can. When you get a carry over from seasons I think it starts fresh every year, so we'll try to get another one here tonight."
Anthony Beauvillier is another Islander who get excited by Ranger games - and for good reason. Beauvillier has nine points (6G, 3A) in his last four games against the Rangers, including his first-career hat trick in Thursday's 7-5 win.
"Coming here, MSG is such a big arena and I don't know, it's different, it's always a little more exciting playing the Rangers," Beauvillier said. "We have lots of fans here and it's a great atmosphere and a such a good rivalry to be a part of."
