NHL: N.Y. Islanders 3, Montreal 2

UNIONDALE, N.Y., Feb. 24 (UPI) -- Frans Nielsen scored the deciding goal midway through the second period Saturday as the New York Islanders fought off Montreal, 3-2.

Nielsen also had an assist to record his first points in the National Hockey League. His goal gave the Islanders a 3-1 advantage and they hung on for the victory after Montreal's Chris Higgins scored on a wrist shot early in the third.

Rick DiPietro made 20 saves in helping the Islanders continue their playoff push. They have produced 24 points in their last 16 games.

Montreal had a three-game winning streak come to an end.