Islanders into play-offs

The New York Islanders clinched their third consecutive play-off appearance thanks to a 6-4 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes.

Mariusz Czerkawski and Adrian Aucoin each scored twice as New York secured the final post-season berth in the Eastern Conference, ahead of Buffalo.

The Islanders scored four straight goals within a span of seven and a half minutes to take a 6-1 lead into the third period.

The Ottawa Senators defeated the Philadelphia Flyers 3-1 in a much less controversial game than their last meeting a month ago.

On that occasion, the teams combined to set an NHL record with 419 penalty minutes but the rematch produced only six minor penalties.

Zdeno Chara had a goal and an assist, and Martin Prusek made 39 saves for the Senators.

Antoine Vermette and Peter Bondra also scored as Ottawa pulled into a tie with Boston for the Northeast Division lead and the second spot in the Eastern Conference.

The Colorado Avalanche ended their five game road losing streak with a 4-2 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Marek Svatos scored his first two NHL goals and Joe Sakic added his 33rd to leave the Avalanche in with a chance of their 10th straight division title.