We are at the stage of the NHL season where it begins to feel as though every game has playoff implications. There are only a few teams who are as good as eliminated at this point, which means he rest are left scrambling for what may well end up being a Wild Card spot. The Islanders would be in if the season ended today, but their lead is pretty slim right now. A couple of losses in a row could see their fortunes change dramatically, as that is just how tight the race is in the East right now. It’s a similar story in the West, and the Minnesota Wild are doing all they can to stay in the playoff race. They are a point back of the final Wild Card spot right now, but are on a hot streak that could have them moving onward and upwards pretty quickly. This looks like being a great match up, so be sure to get your wagers on the latest NHL betting lines soon.
New York Islanders vs Minnesota Wild NHL Odds Preview
When: Tuesday, February 23
Where: Prudential Center, NJ
TV: MSG+ and FSN at 8 PM EST
Radio: WRHU and KFXN
Live Stream: MSG GO
NHL Odds: TBA
Why bet on the New York Islanders
If there is one thing that you can say about the Islanders (31-19-7) this season it is that they have been incredibly consistent. They have been able to avoid losing streaks that have the potential to be season killers, and have in fact not gone on a losing skid of more than 3 games at any point this season. They are a solid team at both ends of the ice, and are in the top 10 in both goals scored and given up average. The Islanders have been particularly good on home ice, but have managed to stay a game over .500 on the road this season. A continuation of this type of form should see them safely into the postseason. They are averaging 2.8 GPG, and are giving up 2.5 GPG.
Why bet on the Minnesota Wild
For many years, the Wild (27-22-10) were known as a defensive bunch that were very difficult to break down. They have done a pretty decent job of breaking that mold, and have been one of the most explosive offensive units over the past couple of weeks. The Wild come into this game on a 4-game winning streak, during which time they have lit the lamp no less than 21 times. They were perfect on a 3-game road trip out West, scoring 5 in each of those games, and they then blitzed the Chicago Blackhawks 6-1 after returning home. It’s tough to say how long they can continue to score at this pace, and you have to believe that they are going to find things tougher against a sound Islanders defense. The Wild are 15-10-4 on home ice this season, and overall are scoring 2.6 GPG, whilst giving up 2.5 GPG.
Expert Pick and Final Score Prediction
This is a game that promises a lot of goals, and I would definitely take a serious look at the OVER here. As good as Minnesota has been of late, I think they are in for a tougher go of things here. I like the Islanders to edge the win, and think it may come in OT.
