Anaheim Ducks (10-17-0) vs. New York Islanders (12-7-7)
Anaheim Ducks vs. New York Islanders 12/13/23 – As the NHL regular season moves forward, an intriguing matchup is set for Wednesday between Anaheim Ducks and New York Islanders. With a record of 10-17-0 for Anaheim against 12-7-7 for New York Islanders, this contest promises to be an intriguing showdown showcasing opposing styles and strategies that fans looking for today’s hockey free picks will find captivating.
The Ducks offense has come alive recently, scoring 14 goals during their 4-game win streak. Frank Vatrano leads Anaheim with 14 goals while Mason McTavish has chipped in 10. This offensive surge seems likely to continue against an Islanders defense that has allowed 3 or more goals in 3 of their last 5 contests.
Meanwhile, the Islanders offense runs through Mathew Barzal who’s tallied 28 points in 25 games. However, the Ducks defense has been stingy on the road, allowing just 2.6 goals against per game away from home. If John Gibson can replicate that road success, he could frustrate New York’s top offensive weapons.
Anaheim Ducks vs. New York Islanders 12/13/23 Info
| When: | Wednesday, December 13, 2023, at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | UBS Arena |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender John Gibson vs. Goaltender Ilya Sorokin
John Gibson has faced his fair share of shots and scoring chances this season as evident by his 2.82 GAA. However, his .906 save percentage indicates he’s also made plenty of difficult saves. Gibson has held opponents to 2 goals or less in 3 of his last 4 starts, showing he still has the talent to steal games. With Anaheim’s offense supporting him now, Gibson simply needs to turn aside the shots he should and let his teammates take care of the rest. The veteran seems to have regained his confidence and footing in net recently. If the Ducks want to pull this upset, they’ll need vintage Gibson.
While Ilya Sorokin sports the superior .913 save percentage, he’s been more inconsistent than his Anaheim counterpart. In his last 10 starts, Sorokin has allowed 1 goal or less just twice compared to allowing 4+ goals 3 times. When he’s on, the quick-gloved Russian can be extremely difficult to beat. But the Islanders netminder has yet to find that dominant groove this season. Against an ascending Ducks offense, Sorokin will need to sharpen his focus. One lapse in concentration could be the difference in a tightly contested affair between two capable goaltenders. An early Anaheim goal could frustrate Sorokin and throw him off his game. He’ll need to be dialed in from the initial puck drop.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this matchup are yet to be released, but based on the teams’ standings, the Islanders might be favored. Bettors should watch for the odds to gauge the perceived strengths and weaknesses of each team.
Anaheim Ducks Betting Trends
The Ducks are 4-1 straight up and against the spread over their last 5 contests. Anaheim has been a profitable 7-5 ATS away from home this season. The Ducks games have gone over the total just 7 times in their 25 contests. If Gibson and the Anaheim defense shows up, they should be able to contain the Islanders offense.
New York Islanders Betting Trends
The Islanders have struggled to just a 2-3 record both straight up and ATS over their previous 5 outings. However, New York has been strong at home with a 9-3 mark ATS at UBS Arena this campaign. The over has hit in 6 of the Isles’ 14 home tilts so far. If Sorokin has an off night, the Ducks recent scoring success could continue.
Anaheim Ducks vs. New York Islanders 12/13/23 Betting Picks
Based on the analysis and betting trends, this game poses an interesting scenario. The Ducks are improving, while the Islanders have shown consistent play most of the season.
In finalizing the pick, consider the Islanders’ strong home record and the Ducks’ recent upswing. The choice of prop bets, over/under options, and expert-paid selections should be influenced by these factors.
Free Pick and Prediction: New York Islanders 3, Anaheim Ducks 2.