The Islanders have guaranteed themselves a place in the post-season with their win today over the Devils. It’s the first time since 1994 that all three teams from the New York metro area are in the playoffs.

With first round action beginning on the 11th, the Isles will face the first-place Buffalo Sabres, who garnered the best record in the entire league. Despite being plagued by injuries, the Sabres put together an amazing season in front of great coaching by Lindy Ruff. It is no small achievement that the Islanders will make an appearance in the playoffs, but they will have their work cut out for them.