The Islanders will try to protect their share of the Atlantic Division lead, as well as complete a four-game home sweep, when the resilient Thrashers visit the Coliseum tonight.

Steve Stirling’s troops will have the task of shutting down the NHL’s top goal-scorer, Ilya Kovalchuk, who went into last night’s match at Columbus with 12 goals in 13 games.

The Isles have their own offense afire, leading the Eastern Conference with 41 goals in 12 games. Summertime free-agent returnee Mariusz Czerkawski is making Mike Milbury look brilliant, leading the team with nine goals.

The Isles have won six of seven to start their home slate and are coming off a 4-1 victory over Dallas on Thursday.