The Philadelphia Flyers and the New York Islanders aren't taking any chances Sunday.
The Metropolitan rivals will do battle in the final game of the regular season but with both teams already guaranteed playoff spots, each is set to sit several of their key players.
The Islanders will sit: John Tavares, Frans Nielsen, Casey Cizikas, Kyle Okposo, and Johnny Boychuk, while goaltender Thomas Greiss will start the game, but not finish it, head coach Jack Capuano told Newsday Sports' Arthur Staple.
The decision makes sense, but heading into Sunday, the Islanders' first round opponent is yet to be decided. A loss by the Islanders would mean the team plays the Florida Panthers in the first round, while a win would set up a meeting with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Asked Capuano if he'd have fielded better lineup had PHI needed tonight's game. "I wouldn't change anything we're doing."
— Arthur Staple (@StapeNewsday) April 10, 2016
As for the Flyers, head coach Dave Hakstol also noted that several of his skaters will be rested tonight as well. Forwards Claude Giroux, Wayne Simmonds, and Sean Couturier, as well as defenseman Mark Streit will sit.
