New York Islanders vs Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction – 3/29/2025

The New York Islanders are set to face the Tampa Bay Lightning on Saturday, March 29, 2025, at Amalie Arena in Tampa, Florida. The game is scheduled to begin at 2:00 PM Eastern Time. This matchup features two teams with contrasting seasons, as the Lightning aim to solidify their playoff positioning, while the Islanders look to finish their season on a positive note.

New York Islanders vs Tampa Bay Lightning Game Preview

The Tampa Bay Lightning enter this game with a record of 41-25-5, positioning them third in the Atlantic Division. They have been formidable at home, boasting a 4-1-0 record in their last five home games. Offensively, the Lightning have been potent, averaging 3.83 goals per game, ranking them sixth in the league. Their power play has been particularly effective, converting at a 25.74% rate, placing them sixth in the NHL. Defensively, they allow an average of 2.85 goals per game, ranking them sixth in goals against average. Goaltender Andrei Vasilevskiy has been a cornerstone for the team, with a season record of 23-15-3, a goals-against average (GAA) of 2.28, and a save percentage of .918, including three shutouts this season.

On the other hand, the New York Islanders have had a challenging season, holding a record of 32-29-10. They are currently seventh in the Metropolitan Division and have struggled on the road, with a 3-3-1 record in their last seven away games. Offensively, the Islanders have found it difficult to produce, averaging 2.25 goals per game, which ranks them 31st in the league. Their power play has also been underwhelming, operating at a 12.00% success rate. Defensively, they allow an average of 3.08 goals per game, placing them tied for 12th in the league. Goaltender Ilya Sorokin has been a bright spot, with a season record of 20-14-4, a GAA of 2.58, and a save percentage of .910, including three shutouts this season.

Betting Insights

As of the latest available information, the betting odds for this matchup are as follows:

• Moneyline: Islanders (+220), Lightning (-275)
• Over/Under: 6.5 goals

Recent betting trends indicate that the Lightning have been strong at home, with a 4-1-0 record in their last five home games. Conversely, the Islanders have struggled on the road, with a 3-3-1 record in their last seven away games. The over/under has been set at 6.5 goals, reflecting the Lightning's strong offensive capabilities and the Islanders' defensive struggles.

New York Islanders vs Tampa Bay Lightning Prediction

Considering the current form and statistical analysis of both teams, the Tampa Bay Lightning appear to have the upper hand in this matchup. Their potent offense, led by players like Nikita Kucherov, who has accumulated 16 points (5 goals, 11 assists) in the last 10 games, combined with solid goaltending from Andrei Vasilevskiy, positions them favorably against the struggling Islanders.

The Islanders' offensive struggles, averaging only 2.25 goals per game, coupled with their defensive vulnerabilities, suggest they may find it challenging to contain the Lightning's high-powered offense. Additionally, the Islanders' power play efficiency of 12.00% is significantly lower than the Lightning's 25.74%, indicating a potential area of exploitation for Tampa Bay.

Given these factors, the prediction for this game is a victory for the Tampa Bay Lightning. Bettors might consider the Lightning on the moneyline at -275. Additionally, considering the offensive capabilities of the Lightning and the defensive struggles of the Islanders, the over on the 6.5 goals line could be a viable option.

As always, it's important for bettors to conduct their own research and consider all factors before placing any wagers.