Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins – Metropolitan Division rivals – are separated by just two points in the standings. However, the Penguins haven't won on the road since October 15th, suffering four consecutive defeats in that span.
New York Islanders
After experimenting with evenly splitting goaltending duties, the Islanders have reverted to a more traditional approach. Ilya Sorokin is set to make his third consecutive start, having been exceptional early in the season with a 92.2% save percentage and a goals against average of 2.29. Sorokin has a positive win-loss record against the Penguins (8-5). The Pittsburgh Penguins' defensive struggles should provide the New York Islanders' forwards with plenty of opportunities to find the net.
Pittsburgh Penguins
Through their first 13 games, only two Penguins players boast a positive plus-minus: Swedish forward Rickard Rakell and Blake Lizotte, who has played just twice. When at even strength, the Penguins allow 3.16 expected goals against per 60 minutes, putting them alongside bottom-dwellers like the Anaheim Ducks, Montreal Canadiens, and San Jose Sharks, teams barely capable of fielding three NHL-level defensive pairs.
New York Islanders vs Pittsburgh Penguins Prediction
Nearly a month into the new season, the Pittsburgh Penguins have only defeated the Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings, Buffalo Sabres, and Anaheim Ducks, none of whom currently occupy a playoff spot. With a significantly stronger goaltender, the Islanders are expected to prevail.
