After a 4-3 loss to the Florida Panthers, the New Jersey Devils (1-1-1, 6th in Metropolitan Division) are keen to bounce back as they square off against the New York Islanders (2-0, 2nd in Metropolitan Division). The Islanders are riding high after a 1-0 shutout win against the Arizona Coyotes. Both teams have something to prove, making this a marquee matchup for any NHL fan.

Devils Dancing on Thin Ice: A Closer Look

The New Jersey Devils are 1-1-1 after opening with a win followed by two losses, including one in a shootout, but their recent 4-3 loss to the Florida Panthers raises questions about the defense. The team allowed four goals, revealing a defense that needs tightening. While Akira Schmid was solid in one start, posting a 2.77 goals-against average and a .909 save percentage, goaltending can only do so much when the defense in front is porous.

Offensively, the Devils have shown promise. New Jersey has netted 10 goals in three games, averaging over three goals per game. The power play has been a bright spot, converting at an impressive 31.3%. This could be a game-changer in matchups where special teams make the difference. Jesper Bratt leads the team in goals with three, while Jack Hughes has been the primary playmaker, leading in assists (4) and overall points (6). 

The penalty kill is the Achilles’ heel for the Devils, operating at a subpar 66.7%. This is a glaring issue that needs immediate attention, especially when facing teams with potent power plays. New Jersey is loaded with talent, from strong attackers like Jack Hughes, Jesper Bratt, Tyler Toffoli and Ordrej Palata to talented defenseman such as Dougie Hamilton and Jonas Siegenthaler.

New Jersey Devils Team Facts

• The Devils have lost each of their last four games as favorites following a home loss.
• The Devils have failed to cover the puck line in each of their last seven games as favorites following a home loss.
• The Devils have lost the first period in six of their last seven games as favorites following a home loss.
• The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 2′ market has hit in each of the Devils’ last eight games against Metropolitan Division opponents.

Islanders: The Unyielding Fortress Unpacked

The New York Islanders are off to a flying start, boasting a 2-0-0 record and sitting comfortably in 2nd place in the Metropolitan Division. Their recent 1-0 victory over the Arizona Coyotes showcased their strong blue line. Ilya Sorokin, the man between the pipes, has been exceptional, recording a 1.00 goals-against average and a .952 save percentage. Not to mention, a shutout through just two games. Sorokin’s form is a significant asset for the Islanders and could be the difference-maker in close contests.

While the Islanders have been defensively sound, allowing just two goals in two games, their offense has been more conservative. They’ve scored only four goals so far, but it’s worth noting that they’ve played two fewer games than many other teams. The power play is operating at a respectable 16.7%, and their penalty kill has been perfect, nullifying all power plays they’ve faced. Kyle Palmieri and Brock Nelson have been the offensive leaders, each contributing two points in the early going. Four different players have each scored one goal for the team.

The Islanders’ style of play focuses on a strong defensive structure, often sacrificing offensive numbers for defensive stability. This approach has proven effective, especially in the playoffs, and could be a crucial factor in their success this season. The team’s discipline is evident in their low penalty minutes, just 12 in two games, allowing them to play more at even strength where they excel. The Islanders have set the stage for another strong season, and their upcoming games could help give them the confidence that they can compete with the best.

New York Islanders Team Facts

• The Islanders have won each of their last four games as home underdogs.
• The Islanders have covered the puck line in each of their last seven games as underdogs against Metropolitan Division opponents.
• The ‘Over 1.5 Goals Period 2′ market has hit in nine of the Islanders’ last 10 games as underdogs against opponents on a losing streak.
• The Islanders have lost the first period in each of their last four games as underdogs following a win.

Matchup/League Facts

• The New York Islanders ranks T1st in the league for goals against per game this season (1.00).
• The New York Islanders ranks T1st in the league in penalty kill percentage this season (100.00%).
• The New Jersey Devils ranks T4th in the league in power play percentage this season (31.25%).
• The New Jersey Devils ranks 29th in the league in penalty kill percentage this season (66.67%).

David’s Pick – New York Islanders (-123)

The Devils have struggled for two games after opening with a win. The Islanders, on the other hand, have been a defensive juggernaut, and with Ilya Sorokin between the pipes, New York is hard to beat. The Islanders have the home-ice advantage and a more balanced team, making them the safer bet. The Devils’ shaky penalty kill, coupled with their recent losses, indicates that New Jersey is not clicking on all cylinders as of yet. I expect the Islanders to capitalize on this and skate away with a win. This will be a defensive struggle as New Jersey can play well in its own end of the ice while we all know the Islanders are defense first. In the end, it will be the play of Sorokin in the crease and a goal or two on an odd-man rush for the Islanders that will prove to be the difference.