New Jersey Devils vs New York Islanders Predictions

Sorokin tests New Jersey’s fast start

New Jersey opened with a 3-2 overtime win over Philadelphia and held a 44-25 advantage in shots, according to New Jersey Devils / NHL.com. That performance makes the Devils the likelier winner, but their -130 moneyline requires more confidence than one strong game provides.

Ilya Sorokin is confirmed to start for New York after stopping 24 of 26 shots in a 2-1 loss at Toronto, New York Islanders / NHL.com reported. The Devils haven’t confirmed their starter, so the goalie matchup doesn’t support laying the road price.

Recent history favors New York

The Islanders went 4-0 against the Devils last season and outscored them 17-4. New York is also 7-0-1 in the past eight meetings, making the Islanders’ +110 price more interesting but not enough for a bet on its own.

Both teams have important absences. Mathew Barzal remains out for New York because of knee inflammation, while New Jersey will be without Connor Brown, Johnathan Kovacevic, Nick Bjugstad and Seamus Casey. Those losses add uncertainty rather than creating a clear betting edge.

Prediction

New Jersey’s opening-game shot advantage supports a narrow lean toward the Devils to win. Sorokin, the unconfirmed New Jersey starter and the Islanders’ recent success in this matchup make -130 too steep, so the betting pick is Pass.