This was the sort of effort which, if the Islanders could replicate it consistently, makes them look like a playoff contender.

The New York Islanders have gone streaking in January – they lost three games in a row to start the month, then won three games on their road trip, then lost back-to-back games on Jan.

Barzal notched two assists, including one on the power play, and three shots on goal in Monday's 3-1 win over the Blue Jackets.

The New York Islanders (19-20-7) took over a second straight game in the second period, bowling over the Columbus Blue Jackets (22-18-7). The game finished X-1, with Bo Horvat’s second-period pair lifting the Islanders to the win.

Kent Johnson scored for the Blue Jackets (22-18-7), who had their seven-game point streak end (6-0-1). Elvis Merzlikins made 22 saves.

The Islanders, seven points behind the Bruins for the Eastern Conference’s second wild-card spot, moved within six points of the surging Blue Jackets and improved to 2-2-0 on their seven-game homestand, which continues Friday night against the Flyers.

Bo Horvat scored twice in New York’s three-goal second period, and the Islanders beat the Columbus Blue Jackets 3-1 on Monday night.

The NHL is back from its holiday roster freeze and fewer than two months away from the trade deadline. So far, there have been 15 trades, four coaching changes, plus extensions signed by Igor Shesterkin,

The Flyers points streak came to an end on Thursday night against the Rangers. The good news is that they immediately get a chance to erase that result on Friday night. The Flyers face the New York Islanders for the second time in eight days, as the two meet once again on Long Island. Game time is 7:30 p.m.

Our updated fantasy hockey rankings sees movement in the top 250, with Nikita Kucherov and Auston Matthews battling for the top spot.

Analyzing Friday’s Philadelphia Flyers at New York Islanders odds and lines, with NHL expert picks, predictions and best bets.