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Fleury, Penguins look for sharp effort against Islanders

Feb 25, 2009 - 11:31 AM NY Islanders (18-35-6) at Pittsburgh (29-26-6), 7:30 p.m. EST

PITTSBURGH (Ticker) -- Goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury has not helped the Pittsburgh Penguins' path to a playoff spot. However, Fleury's next opponent could spark a positive step.

The 24-year-old netminder looks to shake off his struggles Wednesday, when the Penguins host the lowly New York Islanders in a battle of Atlantic Division foes.

Fleury has surrendered 21 goals in his last five contests, and his shoddy play has coincided with that of Pittsburgh. Expected to make his 11th straight start, Fleury is 21-16-4 with a 2.95 goals-against average this season.

The Penguins had their two-game winning streak halted with Sunday's 5-2 loss to the Washington Capitals. They will not have much time to regroup, though, as they embark on a five-game road trip after this contest.

The Islanders had lost seven of eight prior to defeating the New Jersey Devils, 4-0, on Saturday.

The Islanders, who were the only team in the NHL without a shutout, have been propelled by rookie Kyle Okposo. The 20-year-old has registered seven goals in his last 14 contests.