Edmonton Oilers (13-14-1) vs. New York Islanders (14-8-8)
Oilers vs. Islanders 12/19/23 – As Edmonton Oilers prepare to meet New York Islanders on Tuesday night at the UBS Arena at 7:30 PM ET, NHL regular season tension is mounting. Both sides boast 13-14-1 records and bettors anticipate this match-up as one that could significantly alter season’s dynamics. Fans and bettors are eagerly awaiting top free hockey picks ahead of this thrilling contest which promises an unforgettable match-up!
Edmonton Oilers despite their inconsistent play still boast an effective offensive attack, led by dynamic Center Connor McDavid (41 points in 26 games). Leon Draisaitl also provides solid performance with 33 points from 28 games; these numbers demonstrate his consistency and knack for finding the net. However, these powerful offensive performances will come up against an Islanders defense which has proven reliable this season; creating an interesting matchup of offensive agility against defensive discipline in this matchup between Edmonton and New York.
Conversely, Mathew Barzal and Bo Horvat’s New York Islanders offense is adept at breaching defenses as well. Barzal’s 32 points from 29 games demonstrate his finesse combined with tactical acumen; Horvat added 30 points from 29 games. Their offense will be put through rigorous testing against an Oilers defense which has shown moments of vulnerability but remains resilient under pressure; their offensive strategy will ultimately decide the outcome of this matchup.
Oilers vs. Islanders 12/19/23 Game Info
| When: | Tuesday, December 19, 2023 at 7:30 PM ET |
| Where: | UBS Arena |
| TV: | ESP+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Stuart Skinner vs. Goaltender Ilya Sorokin
Oilers starting goaltender Stuart Skinner will be facing a difficult test against the defensively sound Islanders. Through 21 games played this season, he has posted underwhelming numbers including an .885 save percentage along with a 3.04 goals against average. It’s clear he does not yet have the body of work to be considered an experienced, reliable starter, and has shown inconsistent play in the role. This inexperience has hurt the Oilers, as he has struggled with rebound control and positioning against high danger chances. With New York boasting strong offensive weapons like Barzal, Dobson, and Horvat who can make goalies pay for mistakes, Skinner will need to be at the top of his game. If he fails to make key saves and allows soft goals, Edmonton likely won’t have the firepower to keep pace.
In the other crease, Ilya Sorokin has again established himself among the league’s elite netminders with impressive rate stats and eight wins through 19 starts. After finishing third in Vezina Trophy voting last season, he has picked up right where he left off. The team plays a stifling defensive system that limits high quality chances, but even when opponents do break through, Sorokin is adept at making acrobatic reactionary saves look routine. His .912 save percentage ranks top-10 league-wide among goalies with 15+ starts. While the Islanders offense has lacked punch, Sorokin gives them a chance every night with his calm, cool presence in goal. Considering Edmonton lacks weapons beyond their top line, the Russian should have the clear edge over his counterpart.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are eagerly anticipated, with both teams presenting compelling cases. Insights and recommendations based on these odds will be crucial for bettors making their picks.
Edmonton Oilers Betting Trends
The Oilers are 2-3 straight up in their last five. They’ve also posted a 2-3 ATS record during that stretch. Away from home, Edmonton has struggled to cover with a 4-8 road ATS mark this season. But, the total has gone Over in three of their last five overall. While the Over trend points upward, the Islanders defense poses a true test they could fail.
New York Islanders Betting Trends
The Islanders are just 2-3 straight up in their last five contests, but have gone 2-3 against the spread during that span. They seem to play close games regardless of result. Additionally, New York has been a strong road bet at 9-4 ATS away from home. With a pedestrian offense, they play a lot of Under games as well. The total has gone Over in just three of their previous five matchups.
Edmonton Oilers vs. New York Islanders 12/19/23 Betting Picks
In conclusion, this game is a tight affair with both teams having strengths and weaknesses that could be exploited. The Oilers’ offensive might versus the Islanders’ defensive resilience is the key battle to watch.
The better pick seems to be a matter of strategy and current form. Prop bets, over/under, and individual player performances could be intriguing aspects to consider for bettors. The Pro handicapper’s picks would likely weigh in these variables for a more informed betting decision.
Free Pick and Prediction: Edmonton Oilers 3, New York Islanders 2.