Vancouver Canucks vs New York Islanders Predictions

New York can attack Vancouver’s biggest weaknesses

Vancouver Canucks / NHL.com lists the Canucks at 3.43 goals scored and 5.00 allowed per game, while the Islanders enter at 3.20 scored and 2.60 allowed. Vancouver’s offense creates some upset risk, but its defensive record makes New York the likelier winner at UBS Arena.

Special teams widen that gap. New York has converted 25.0% of its power plays and killed 84.2% of its penalties, compared with Vancouver’s 19.0% power play and 52.0% penalty kill. That gives the Islanders a clear advantage if the game produces frequent penalties.

The goaltending numbers also favor New York if Ilya Sorokin starts. Vancouver Canucks / NHL.com reports that Sorokin has a .937 save percentage and 1.77 goals-against average in four starts. Kevin Lankinen entered with a .786 save percentage and 6.88 goals-against average through five starts, according to New York Islanders / NHL.com, but neither goalie was confirmed for Tuesday.

The Islanders should win, but the price is too high

The SPF moneyline makes New York a -218 favorite and Vancouver a +180 underdog. The Islanders’ defensive and special-teams advantages support the favorite, but their updated lineup was still pending Tuesday’s morning skate. Mathew Barzal also remains on injured reserve, while Adam Pelech is expected to play after a maintenance day.

Vancouver lost 6-2 to the Rangers on Oct. 11, but it has enough scoring to make a heavy favorite risky. Jake DeBrusk has scored three goals on this road trip, and Jonathan Lekkerimäki has five even-strength points through seven games. New York is the pick to win, but the -218 moneyline is a pass. SPF lists the Islanders at -1.5 without an attached price, so there is no puck-line wager to recommend.