With Butch Goring’s job in peril, the Islanders could save their coach with a strong finish in the final 25 games. They begin that effort tonight when they visit the Oilers in Edmonton.

Coming off Wednesday’s 3-1 beating by the Flyers, the Isles (14-35-5-3) increased their losing streak to six games. Carrying the worst record in the league, the Isles have won just eight times in their last 44 games.

Second-year center Tim Connolly was benched through the entire third period Wednesday. Goring was not happy with the 19-year old’s discipline on the ice.

“If you’re not going to learn, you’re going to sit,” Goring said.

Expected to improve upon his strong rookie season, Connolly has taken a step backward. He has just six goals and 20 assists in 57 games.

Rookie goalie Rick DiPietro could be in net tonight as he still searches for his first win (0-5-0).

After tonight, the Isles head to Vancouver to face the Canucks on Sunday. Then, they return to the Coliseum to take on the Flyers.