New York Islanders vs Pittsburgh Penguins Pick – 3/18/2025

The New York Islanders are set to face off against the Pittsburgh Penguins on Tuesday, March 18, 2025, at 7:00 PM Eastern Time at PPG Paints Arena. This Metropolitan Division clash features two teams striving to improve their standings as the regular season progresses.

New York Islanders vs Pittsburgh Penguins Game Preview

The Islanders enter this game with a 30-28-8 record, placing them sixth in the Metropolitan Division. They recently snapped a three-game losing streak with a 4-2 comeback victory over the Florida Panthers. In that game, New York overcame a 2-0 deficit by scoring four goals in the third period. Maxim Tsyplakov, Noah Dobson, Simon Holmstrom, and Marc Gatcomb each contributed goals, while goaltender Ilya Sorokin made 22 saves to secure his 25th win of the season.

Offensively, the Islanders have faced challenges, averaging 2.68 goals per game, which ranks them 28th in the league. Their power play has been particularly ineffective, converting only 11.5% of opportunities. Defensively, they allow an average of 2.95 goals per game, with a penalty kill success rate of 70.6%. Key players include Anders Lee, who leads the team with 25 goals, and Bo Horvat, who has added 21 goals and 23 assists.

The Penguins, holding a 28-31-10 record, are also sixth in the Metropolitan Division. They are on a four-game winning streak, most recently defeating the New Jersey Devils 7-3. In that matchup, Pittsburgh maintained control after establishing a 2-1 lead in the first period. Rickard Rakell scored his team-leading 31st goal, and goaltender Tristan Jarry stopped 24 shots to earn the win.

Pittsburgh's offense averages 2.91 goals per game, ranking 18th in the league, with a power play efficiency of 24.3%. Defensively, they have struggled, allowing 3.55 goals per game, placing them 32nd in the league. Sidney Crosby continues to be a pivotal player, leading the team with 23 goals and 50 assists.

Betting Insights

As of the latest reports, the betting odds are evenly matched, with both teams listed at -110, and the over/under set at 5.5 goals. Several trends and statistics provide insights into potential outcomes:

• The Islanders have lost each of their last seven Tuesday road games.
• The Penguins have won each of their last four games.
• The home team has covered the puck line in eight of the Islanders’ last nine games.
• The Islanders have failed to cover the puck line in five of their last six road games.
• The Islanders have lost the first period in each of their last six games at PPG Paints Arena.

Player prop considerations include:

• Rickard Rakell has scored at least one goal in four of the Penguins’ last five home games.
• Sidney Crosby has recorded at least one assist in 14 of the Penguins’ last 16 home games against Eastern Conference opponents.
• Sidney Crosby has recorded at least one point in each of the Penguins’ last 10 home games.

New York Islanders vs Pittsburgh Penguins Prediction

Analyzing the current form and statistical data, the Penguins appear to have the advantage in this matchup. Their recent four-game winning streak indicates a surge in performance, and playing on home ice provides additional support. The Islanders have struggled on the road, particularly in Tuesday games, and their offensive production has been inconsistent.

Given these factors, the prediction leans towards a Penguins victory. Bettors might consider the Penguins on the moneyline at -110. Additionally, with both teams having defensive vulnerabilities, the over on the 5.5 total goals line could be a viable option.

As always, it's important to consider all variables and conduct thorough research before making any betting decisions.