LiontipsIslanders vs Pittsburgh. Prediction and Betting Tips for NHL (April 13, 2022).
Command Analysis
The Islanders had a horrible start to the season, and despite showing decent results lately, they won't qualify for the playoffs. The Isles won five of their last seven games, but in the last outing, they suffered a crushing defeat to Boston (1:6).
Before that, New York beat New Jersey (3:4), lost to Dallas (2:3), and yielded to Carolina (1:2). Barry Trotz's men prefer a more defensive brand of hockey at home and on average concede no more than two goals. The team also defends well against power play - the Islanders neutralize 84,9% of the opponents' chances.
Pittsburgh are in 7th place in the East and have already secured their playoffs berth. The Penguins recently had a four-game losing streak, but they broke it by defeating Nashville (3:2 OT). Before that, the Pens lost to Colorado (4:6), the Rangers (0:3), and the Capitals (3:6).
Mike Sullivan's men are very successfull on road trips, they won 19 away games in regulation. However, the Penguins have problems on the defensive this season and concede an average of three goals per game.
Trends
Pittsburgh conceded more than 2 goals in 4 of their last 5 games.
Both teams scored in the first period in 2 of the last 3 head-to-head games.
Tip and bets
The Islanders are an uncomfortable opponent for Pittsburgh. The Pens struggle against the teams with powerful defensive lines. At home, the Islanders deliver solid results and rarely lose in regulation. We think that Trotz's side will get the upper hand here.
Our prediction - Asian handicap (0) to Islanders
Pittsburgh often concede more than two goals, especially when they play away from home. The Islanders, on the other hand, score at least three goals at home.
Second bet - Islanders IT over 2.5 goals
