Vancouver Canucks vs New York Islanders Pick – 3/26/2025

The Vancouver Canucks are set to face the New York Islanders at UBS Arena on Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET. Both teams are vying for crucial points as they push for playoff positions in their respective conferences.

Vancouver Canucks vs. New York Islanders Game Preview

The Canucks enter this game with a 33-26-12 record, placing them fourth in the Pacific Division. They recently secured a 4-3 shootout victory over the New Jersey Devils, marking only their second win in the last five games. This matchup is part of a six-game road trip, where they currently hold a 1-1-1 record.

Offensively, Vancouver has been improving, averaging 3.20 goals per game over their last five contests, up from their season average of 2.79 goals per game. The return of captain and defenseman Quinn Hughes has bolstered their attack. However, goaltending remains a concern due to injuries. Thatcher Demko returned from a prolonged absence but struggled in his latest outing. Backup Kevin Lankinen may start in this game; he has a 24-14-8 record this season with a 2.59 goals-against average (GAA) and a .901 save percentage (SV%).

The Islanders, with a 32-28-10 record, are fifth in the Metropolitan Division. They are coming off a 4-3 shootout loss to the Columbus Blue Jackets, extending their point streak to six games (3-0-3). Despite this, defensive issues have emerged, with the team allowing an average of 3.00 goals per game over their last eight contests, slightly above their season average of 2.96 goals against per game.

New York's defense has been conceding more shots recently, averaging 31.4 shots against per game in their last ten outings, compared to their season average of 28.9. Goalie Ilya Sorokin is expected to start; he holds a 27-20-6 record with a 2.72 GAA and a .907 SV% this season. Notably, Sorokin has struggled against the Canucks at home, with a 0-2-0 record and a 5.13 GAA in such matchups.

Betting Insights

• Moneyline: The Islanders are favored at -124, while the Canucks are at +104.
• Over/Under: The total is set at 5.5 goals, with recent trends suggesting a higher-scoring game.

Key trends to consider:

• The Canucks have a 7-3-0 record in their last 10 road games against the Islanders.
• The Islanders have a 1-2-1 record as favorites against Pacific Division teams at home this season.
• Each of the last nine meetings between these teams has gone over the total.

Vancouver Canucks vs. New York Islanders Prediction

Both teams are in the thick of their respective playoff races, making this a pivotal game. The Canucks' offense has been on an upswing, and they have historically performed well against the Islanders on the road. Given Sorokin's struggles against Vancouver at home and the Canucks' recent scoring surge, Vancouver appears to have the edge.

Prediction: Vancouver Canucks to win on the moneyline (+104).

Considering the recent trends and both teams' defensive vulnerabilities, a higher-scoring game is anticipated.

Prediction: Over 5.5 goals.

As always, bettors should consider the latest team news and any last-minute changes before placing wagers.