If you aren't going to beat the teams in front of you consistently, you have to beat the teams behind you.

Ever since Mathew Barzal, Anthony Duclair, and Adam Pelech all suffered long-term injuries, the New York Islanders have had a goal: to stay afloat.

That’s definitely what they're doing, but it seems like there has to be a sense of urgency now with the three of them beginning to skate and the mid-season mark near.

If the Islanders have any intention of keeping themselves “afloat,” this is certainly a game they have to find a way to win.

When staying in the playoff race, it seems self-explanatory that you have to take care of the teams behind you. 

However, that is something the Islanders have struggled with so far.

Of their 19 losses, 10 have come against non-playoff teams. 

The Detroit Red Wings swept them in their three-game season series. 

They've lost to the Columbus Blue Jackets, Montreal Canadiens, and Anaheim Ducks, to name a few. 

And listen, it's the NHL. There's no such thing as an easy game. 

But there are times when the better team has to come out on top. 

Thursday night is one of those times.

Not only will the Islanders face off against the Blackhawks on Thursday, but they will play each other again in Chicago on Sunday for a chance to grab four crucial points. 

Last season, they went 1-0-1 against the Blackhawks. Their overtime loss on Jan. 19 proved costly, as it was the final dagger for Lane Lambert. 

Puck drop is coming your way between these two squads at 7:30 PM ET.