Playoff hockey is different than regular-season play in that the game transforms into one of disciplined defense. Netminding, blue-line defense and special teams are of utmost importance in the playoffs, and the teams that can play from the goal outward prosper while those teams that lack those things falter.

The Islanders fit the playoff template for success. Though they arrive with very little experience, the Isles play staunch team defense in front of a platoon of goalies — Robin Lehner and Thomas Greiss — who ranked third and fourth, respectively, in goals-against average in the NHL this season among qualifiers.

The high-scoring Penguins allow 33 shots per game, highest in the playoffs, and goalie Matt Murray has put up pedestrian numbers all year.

The play: Islanders to win series (+125).