The New York Islanders need to find wins any way they can get them these days.
Despite a rash of injuries, inconsistent play, and the trade of Brock Nelson, the Islanders are still right in the thick of the playoff race in the Eastern Conference, with 11 games to go in the regular season.
The Isles begin a tough back-to-back against the Tampa Bay Lightning and Carolina Hurricanes in Florida on Saturday afternoon.
The Lightning are a -225 favorite at the time of writing.
Exclusive Bet365 Sportsbook bonus code NYPBET
Take advantage of this Bet365 Sportsbook bonus code and get a $150 bonus for Saturday’s clash between the Islanders and the Lightning.
Islanders vs. Lightning betting preview
There aren’t many ways that the Islanders can beat you these days.
The Isles are thin up front, they’re playing a patchwork blueline, and their special teams units are abysmal.
For the Islanders to win – especially against a team like Tampa Bay – they need to limit mistakes, get strong goaltending, and catch a few breaks.
Betting on the NHL?
- Check out the best NHL betting sites
- Read our expert guide on how to bet on the NHL
It’s not a recipe for long-term success in an NHL season, but the Islanders have no choice right now.
The Isles have shown that they can put together tidy performances despite their limitations, but that’ll be a lot easier said than done against the Bolts.
Tampa Bay boasts the third-best goal difference in the NHL and is averaging 3.57 goals per game, good enough for second overall this season.
Islanders vs. Lightning betting pick
The Lightning have been terrific at 5-on-5 over their past 10 games and shouldn’t have too many issues controlling play against a depleted Islanders lineup.
Perhaps the Isles are on their A-game or steal a game with their goaltending, but it’s hard to envision many paths to success for the visitors on Saturday.
Tampa Bay should have more than enough to get this victory, and given Patrick Roy’s habit of pulling his goaltender early, the puck line looks like a shrewd way of finding some value on what could be a lopsided contest.
The Play: Lightning -1.5 (+110)
Why Trust New York Post Betting
Michael Leboff is a long-suffering Islanders fan, but a long-profiting sports bettor with 10 years of experience in the gambling industry. He loves using game theory to help punters win bracket pools, find long shots, and learn how to beat the market in mainstream and niche sports.
New customers only, 21+ (18+ in KY). Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER. Available in AZ, CO, NJ, IA, KY, IN, LA, NC, VA, OH only. Bet $5 and Get $150 in Bonus Bets at bet365. Registration required. A deposit (minimum $10) is required to participate in this offer. You must claim the offer via the bet365 app, within 30 days of registering your account. Once released, your Bonus Bets will be held in your account balance and are non-withdrawable.T&Cs, time limits and exclusions apply.
