As humbling as Game 5 was, it amounted to an out-of-body experience the Islanders believe will be easy to put behind them. They will try to bring their best in Game 6 on Wednesday at 8 p.m. ET on Sportsnet.

Steven Stamkos put to rest any questions about his production with a three-point night during the Lightning's unexpected 8-0 win Monday over the Islanders in Game 5 of their Stanley Cup semifinal series.

The margins are small in a 2-1 series, but the Tampa Bay Lightning seem to be seizing some control while finding an answer for every New York Islanders push so far.

On this night, Nikita Kucherov was a concert violinist among percussionists. When nobody could find open space on the ice at Amalie Arena, Kucherov created it. And while everyone else battled and scrummed and tried to set tones, he simply played his own tune.

The New York Islanders managed the playoff intensity to perfection, avoiding any unnecessary risk and completely nullifying the Tampa Bay Lightning’s ability to attack off the rush.

In Zach Hyman the Toronto Maple Leafs have a reliable contributor and trusted teammate. Whether or not they can find a way to keep him remains to be seen.