After suffering a heartbreaking 4-3 overtime loss to the Chicago Blackhawks, the New York Islanders find themselves in desperate need of a turnaround. With four consecutive defeats and a dismal 2-6-2 record in their last 10 games, the team is now sitting at seventh place in the Metropolitan Division. However, despite growing frustration from fans, the Islanders players are resolute in their support for coach Lane Lambert.

Forward Matt Martin spoke out against suggestions that the team needed a drastic change, stating, "At the end of the day, it's on us. It's just on us as players." Martin emphasized that the coaching staff has provided them with all the necessary tools, strategies, and game plans, but executing on the ice ultimately falls on the players' shoulders.

While social media may buzz with demands for a new coach, the Islanders' management and players have shown a deeper appreciation for Lambert. Earlier in the season, the coach received support from both management and players despite chants from the fan base calling for his removal. The team rallied from a seven-game losing streak, proving their resilience and loyalty to Lambert.

The general manager, Lou Lamoriello, who was absent during the recent road trip with assistant GM Chris Lamoriello taking his place, has remained tight-lipped about his thoughts on the situation. It remains uncertain whether a change is imminent, but if Lamoriello deems it necessary, Lambert's position may be in jeopardy.

Meanwhile, Lambert shares the sentiment expressed by Martin, acknowledging that the players must take responsibility for their performance. He stated, "There's leadership in that room. We've got guys that need to play better. The jolt needs to come from within as well [as the coaching staff]."

In other news, rookie forward Kyle MacLean made his NHL debut and impressed his coach. Skating for 10 minutes and 21 seconds, MacLean showcased his speed and earned praise from Lambert. The young player expressed gratitude for the support he received from his teammates, stating that they helped him settle into the game.

On the injury front, goaltender Semyon Varlamov is making progress in his recovery from a lower-body injury. He has been skating daily on his own, providing hope for his return to the Islanders' lineup.

With mounting pressure to reverse their losing streak, all eyes will be on the Islanders as they seek to regain their form and climb up the division standings. The players remain committed to Coach Lambert's guidance and believe that the necessary change must come from within the team.