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Rising Islanders Set Sights on Faltering Blue Jackets
The New York Islanders are fighting to keep their playoff hopes alive as they prepare to host the Columbus Blue Jackets on Monday night in Elmont, N.Y. This Metropolitan Division battle has high stakes, with both teams trying to stay in the wild-card race. The Islanders are looking to bounce back after a tough overtime loss, while the Blue Jackets are desperate to snap their six-game losing streak.
For the latest odds and expert analysis on this game, check out the NHL Metropolitan Division Odds & Predictions.
Islanders Seeking Redemption
The Islanders (32-28-9, 73 points) enter Monday night’s matchup one point behind the New York Rangers (74 points) and two points behind the Montreal Canadiens (75 points) for the final Eastern Conference wild-card spot. Their chances took a hit on Saturday night when they lost a 4-3 overtime heartbreaker to the Calgary Flames.
Kyle MacLean gave the Islanders a 3-2 lead with 2:21 left in regulation, but Jonathan Huberdeau tied it just 29 seconds later. Nazem Kadri then sealed the game in overtime, handing the Islanders a frustrating loss that snapped their three-game winning streak.
“It was nice to score, but we wanted the two points and I think we all know in here we let it slip a little,” said MacLean.
Despite the setback, the Islanders have shown resilience in recent games and are keen on mounting another late-season surge into the playoffs. They have successfully pulled off similar rallies in past seasons, including clinching a wild-card spot in 2022-23 after finishing 14-7-2 in their final 23 games.
Stay updated on the Islanders’ playoff chances and odds on the NHL Conference Odds & Predictions page.
Blue Jackets: Desperate for a Turnaround
The Columbus Blue Jackets (31-29-9, 71 points) are struggling to keep their postseason dreams alive. Their six-game losing streak has pushed them further down the standings, and they are now two points behind the Islanders in the Eastern Conference wild-card race.
Friday’s 6-3 loss to the Pittsburgh Penguins marked the sixth consecutive defeat for the Blue Jackets, who have been outscored 34-16 during this dismal stretch. The offense has been particularly problematic, as Columbus has endured four shutout defeats in their last nine games.
Boone Jenner, Justin Danforth, and Kent Johnson each found the net against Pittsburgh, but it wasn’t enough to stave off another disappointing loss. Jenner, playing his 13th game since returning from preseason shoulder surgery, finally netted his first goal of the season.
“It’s the time of year when you need points and you need results and we haven’t done that,” Blue Jackets defenseman Zach Werenski lamented after the game.
Columbus hasn’t even held a lead during their six-game skid, and their playoff hopes are fading fast. To keep tabs on the latest betting odds and predictions for the Blue Jackets, visit the NHL Atlantic Division Odds & Predictions.
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Key Players to Watch
New York Islanders
- Kyle MacLean: Scored the go-ahead goal against the Flames and continues to be a reliable presence.
- Brock Nelson: Consistent scorer and a key part of the Islanders’ offensive strategy.
- Ilya Sorokin: Top goaltender looking to bounce back after allowing four goals to Calgary.
Columbus Blue Jackets
- Boone Jenner: Finally scored his first goal since returning from injury and will look to spark the offense.
- Zach Werenski: Critical on the blue line and capable of contributing offensively.
- Elvis Merzlikins: Goalie under pressure to improve performance after a string of disappointing games.
Prediction and Game Outlook
The Islanders are slight favorites at home, but their inconsistency could make this a closely contested game. The Blue Jackets are desperate for a win, and their physical style of play could pose challenges. If the Islanders can capitalize on the power play and maintain defensive discipline, they should secure the crucial two points.
For more insights into this matchup and predictions, check out the NHL Scores and Stats page on Scores and Stats.
Bottom Line
With both teams clinging to their slim playoff hopes, expect a high-intensity battle from start to finish. The Islanders need to continue building momentum, while the Blue Jackets must find a way to end their losing streak. Keep an eye on the top scorers and goaltenders, as they will undoubtedly play pivotal roles in this crucial game.
