Creating and sustaining an impact has been a lingering issue during the first 3 1⁄2 months of the season. It’s part of the reason the Islanders (17-19-7, 41 points) entered the first of three games in 14 days against the Flyers in 15th place in the Eastern Conference, two points ahead of last-place Buffalo.

The Islanders play their first game in Salt Lake City when they visit the Utah Hockey Club (9 p.m., et, MSGSN2)

The Philadelphia Flyers head to Long Island tonight to take on the New York Islanders, aiming to build on their recent strong performances.

Sean Couturier had a goal and an assist, Travis Konecny added three assists and the Philadelphia Flyers defeated the New York Islanders 5-3.

Islanders rookie Maxim Tsyplakov had a target on his back after delivering a hard shoulder check on Poehling, who left the game.