Arizona Coyotes (1-1-0) vs. New York Islanders (1-0-0)
Arizona Coyotes vs. New York Islanders 10/17/23 – As the NHL season unfolds, the Arizona Coyotes, holding a balanced record of 1-1-0, prepare to challenge the unbeaten New York Islanders who stand at 1-0-0. Set to clash at the UBS Arena on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, this early-season matchup has generated significant intrigue among hockey aficionados. With the current standings and recent performances in view, fans and bettors are on the lookout for today’s top free NHL picks.
Delving into the Coyotes’ offensive framework, Nick Schmaltz and Clayton Keller have emerged as key contributors with 3 points each from two games. The pair, supplemented by Logan Cooley’s playmaking abilities, presents an offense that can certainly challenge defenses. The Islanders, however, are not a side to be taken lightly, with their defensive units showing resilience in their opening game. The synergy between the Coyotes’ forwards and their potential to exploit any gaps in the Islanders’ defense will be a focal point in this encounter.
Conversely, the New York Islanders, having won their only game of the season, spotlight Brock Nelson as a standout performer. With a goal and an assist in his name, he promises to be a thorn in the side of the Coyotes’ defense. Supported by Pierre Engvall and Cal Clutterbuck, the Islanders’ offense showcases potential dynamism that might pressure the Coyotes’ defensive mechanisms.
Arizona Coyotes vs. New York Islanders Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, October 17, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | UBS Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Karel Vejmelka vs. Goaltender Ilya Sorokin
In the tussle between the nets, Karel Vejmelka of the Coyotes has shown commendable skills, securing a win in his sole appearance. With a save percentage of 0.917 and 2.77 goals against per game, he stands as a reliable figure. However, the Islanders’ offense, led by Nelson, will certainly aim to test his mettle and capitalize on any potential lapses.
On the other hand, Ilya Sorokin of the Islanders has exhibited an even more impressive form with a save percentage of 0.929 and conceding just 2.01 goals per game. Facing the offensive talents of Schmaltz and Keller, Sorokin’s abilities will be pivotal in keeping the Coyotes at bay.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: New York Islanders Moneyline -187, Total Odds: 6
The odds lean in favor of the Islanders, mirroring their impressive start and home advantage. The Moneyline of -187 signifies that bettors would need to wager $187 to win $100 on an Islanders victory, highlighting their status as favorites for this matchup. Conversely, the total odds being set at 6 indicates an expectation of a combined score of around six goals from both teams. However, the narrow margins suggest that this could be a closely contested affair, which offers bettors an opportunity to capitalize on potentially high returns for the Coyotes.
Arizona Coyotes Betting Trends
The Coyotes’ recent trends highlight a tendency for high-scoring games, with the total going OVER in 8 of their last 11 encounters. However, their overall form remains a concern, holding a 2-12 SU record in their past 14 games and a staggering 1-9 SU on the road. This, coupled with their 1-8 SU record against the Islanders in away games, does ring alarm bells for their prospects in this clash.
New York Islanders Betting Trends
For the Islanders, the pattern indicates a more defensive approach against Western Conference teams, with the total going UNDER in 10 of their last 13 against such opponents. Their home form is commendable, registering a 6-2 SU in their last 8 games at home, and an impressive 8-1 SU when hosting the Coyotes.
Arizona Coyotes vs. New York Islanders 10/17/23 Betting Picks
Given the recent performances and trends, the Islanders appear to be the safer bet, especially considering their formidable home record against the Coyotes. However, the potential for a high-scoring game exists, and bettors might look towards the OVER in total goals.
As for the final pick, while the Islanders are poised to continue their unbeaten run, the Coyotes have the potential to pull off an upset. In terms of prop bets, the current form of Schmaltz and Nelson might offer enticing odds for goal-scorer markets. Paid predictions also lean towards an Islanders victory, but with close margins.
Free Pick and Prediction: New York Islanders 5, Arizona Coyotes 3.