Ryan Strome will watch Game 3 against the Tampa Bay Lightning from the press box.
The young New York Islanders forward will sit as a healthy scratch Tuesday after being similarly benched by head coach Jack Capuano in two games during the opening round. Josh Bailey will draw into the lineup in his stead.
Strome hasn't yet spoken with the coach about the decision.
"Last series (the message was) I needed to be a little harder to play against," Strome said, according to Arthur Staple of Newsday. "Points don't always tell the whole story. I'm always confident in my game, but unfortunately I don't make the decisions. I have to live with it.
"But it's an important time here and no matter what I'm thinking right now, it's all about the team. I'm sure Bails will do a great job."
Strome has recorded one goal, three assists, and 10 shots in six playoff games.
