Islanders vs. Blue Jackets Picks and Prediction – 4/17/2025

New York Islanders (35-34-12) vs. Columbus Blue Jackets (39-33-9)
Time: 7:00 PM ET
Location: Nationwide Arena, Columbus, OH
TV: ESPN+

Previous Games:

  • Islanders: 2-3 loss vs. Philadelphia

  • Blue Jackets: 5-game winning streak

Head-to-Head:

The Islanders have dominated the head-to-head recently, winning 10 of their last 13 matchups against Columbus. However, the Blue Jackets are red-hot, currently riding a 5-game win streak. With their home advantage and offensive firepower, Columbus will look to continue their strong play.

New York Islanders Breakdown:

The Islanders are in a tight battle for a playoff spot but have been inconsistent. They average just 2.73 goals per game while giving up 2.81 goals. Despite solid individual performances from Anders Lee and Bo Horvat, the Islanders have struggled to generate consistent offense. Their special teams have been lackluster, with the power play operating at a low 12.6%. Injuries to Mathew Barzal and Semyon Varlamov are also hindering their chances.

Key Players:

  • Anders Lee: 29 goals, 25 assists

  • Bo Horvat: 28 goals, 29 assists

  • Ilya Sorokin: 2.33 GAA, .926 SV%

Columbus Blue Jackets Breakdown:

Columbus is in great form, having won 5 straight games and averaging 3.22 goals per game. Kirill Marchenko and Zach Werenski have been key contributors offensively, with Marchenko posting 73 points. Columbus has a strong power play at 21.6% but struggles defensively, allowing 3.12 goals per game. Elvis Merzlikins remains day-to-day, but Columbus has enough momentum to maintain their strong performance at home.

Key Players:

  • Kirill Marchenko: 31 goals, 42 assists

  • Zach Werenski: 20 goals, 60 assists

  • Johnny Gaudreau: 17 goals, 48 assists

Betting Trends:

New York Islanders:

  • 10-3 in their last 13 games vs. Columbus.

  • Under 7-2-1 in the last 10 meetings in Columbus.

Columbus Blue Jackets:

  • 5-0 in their last 5 games.

  • Over 10-3-1 in their last 14 games as a favorite.

Exact Score Prediction:

Columbus Blue Jackets 4 – New York Islanders 3

Our Best Bet:

Columbus Blue Jackets -135

Columbus is on a roll, and while the Islanders have had their success against them historically, the Blue Jackets are firing on all cylinders. With their potent offense and momentum, they are in a strong position to win this one at home. The Islanders’ struggles to generate offense and their injuries give Columbus the edge. Expect a 4-2 win for the Blue Jackets.

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