Pittsburgh Penguins vs
New York IslandersPredictions & Preview

Islanders Favored to Win Against Penguins in Metropolitan Division Matchup

The 2024-25 NHL season continues with the Pittsburgh Penguins taking on the New York Islanders in a Metropolitan Division matchup on Saturday, December 28 at UBS Arena in Elmont, NY. The Islanders, who have won their last three games against the Penguins, are favored to win with opening odds of -140 that have remained unchanged. In their previous meeting in November, the Islanders secured a 4-3 shootout victory over the Penguins. This game promises to be an exciting showdown between two competitive teams.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Penguins +125 | Islanders -140
• Spread: Penguins +1.5 (-210) | Islanders -1.5 (+174)
• Total: Over/Under 6 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that New York will win straight-up is 58%.

Pittsburgh vs New York Stats

Pittsburgh Penguins

The Pittsburgh Penguins are currently on a strong run of form, going 4-1-1 in their last six games with standout performances by Michael Bunting and Sidney Crosby. Despite their offensive prowess, the Penguins struggle defensively, allowing an average of 3.64 goals per game. Goalies Tristan Jarry and Alex Nedeljkovic have had mixed performances this season. The team ranks 15th in goals scored and 7th in power-play percentage. However, they are ranked 19th in power rankings, with a below-average defense and a record of 16-15-5. Take advantage of the best sports betting promos to stay updated on their performance.

New York Islanders Analysis

The New York Islanders have recently struggled, going 2-4-0 in their last six games and suffering an embarrassing 7-1 loss to the Buffalo Sabres. Despite outshooting their opponents, the Islanders were unable to secure a victory, with Kyle Palmieri scoring the lone goal for the team. Goalie Ilya Sorokin had a tough game, allowing six goals on 24 shots. The team is missing Semyon Varlamov due to injury, and their defensive and offensive stats rank in the bottom half of the league. The Islanders are also last in the NHL in both power-play and penalty-killing percentages. To improve their performance, they may benefit from the assistance of top hockey handicappers. Additionally, the team has a power ranking of 29 and a record of 13-15-7, with Pittsburgh having won their last three matchups against New York.

Defensive Struggles Could Favor Penguins in Matchup Against Islanders at + Money

I am hesitant to take the Islanders at -135 due to recent defensive struggles on both sides. The Penguins have shown weaknesses in defensive play, while the Islanders have allowed 23 goals in their last five games, including a high-scoring matchup against the Sabres. Additionally, the Islanders have exhibited subpar performance on special teams. Considering the Penguins' stronger offensive capabilities compared to New York, I am leaning towards backing Pittsburgh at plus money. The Penguins aim to secure their first road win against the Islanders since December 27, 2023.

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