New York Islanders vs Columbus Blue Jackets Picks and Predictions for Saturday February 28 2026
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The New York Islanders travel to Nationwide Arena to face the Columbus Blue Jackets on Saturday, February 28, 2026. Puck drop is scheduled for 6:00 PM with coverage available on ESPN+. This Metropolitan Division matchup features two teams in the thick of the playoff conversation. At the time of this writing, the odds were not released. Be sure to check out our free NHL picks for more expert breakdowns and daily betting insights.
Islanders Bringing Road Success to Columbus
The Islanders enter this contest with a 33-21-5 overall record and a strong 17-11-3 mark on the road. New York has been playing competitive hockey recently, picking up wins over Montreal 4-3 in overtime, New Jersey 3-1, and Pittsburgh 5-4 in overtime. They did suffer losses to Washington and Nashville but continue to find ways to secure points in tight games.
Offensively, the Islanders are averaging 2.84 goals per game while allowing just 2.71 goals against. They generate 27.4 shots per contest and allow 27.9 shots. While their power play has been a weakness at 15.7% with 27 goals, their penalty kill has been solid at 82.4%.
One notable strength for New York is their defensive discipline. Allowing only 2.71 goals per game and surrendering just 28 power play goals all season highlights their structured defensive approach. With seven shorthanded goals and zero allowed, they capitalize on mistakes while limiting their own.
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Blue Jackets Strong on Home Ice
Columbus comes into this matchup at 29-21-7 overall and an impressive 15-8-4 record at home. The Blue Jackets recently dropped a 4-2 game to Boston but have also secured wins over Chicago twice, New Jersey, and St. Louis in recent action, showing they can string together victories.
The Blue Jackets are scoring 3.11 goals per game while allowing 3.14 goals against. They average 29.8 shots per contest and allow 30.3 shots. Columbus has 27 power play goals at a 19.7% clip, though their penalty kill sits at 77.4%.
What stands out about Columbus is their offensive pace. Averaging nearly 30 shots per game and over three goals per contest, they are not shy about pushing the tempo. However, allowing over three goals per game leaves them vulnerable against disciplined teams like the Islanders.
New York Islanders vs Columbus Blue Jackets Pick
Islanders vs Blue Jackets Pick
- Pick: New York Islanders Moneyline
New York’s road record and defensive consistency give them the edge in this matchup. While Columbus plays well at home, the Islanders’ ability to limit scoring chances and capitalize in tight games makes them the more reliable side. Their penalty kill advantage could also be decisive.
Islanders vs Blue Jackets Total Pick
- Pick: Under if total is set at 6.5
I see this as a lower-scoring game. The Islanders average under three goals per contest and allow just 2.71 per game. While Columbus can generate offense, New York’s structured defense and solid penalty kill should slow things down. I expect a tighter, playoff-style matchup.
Final Score Prediction: Islanders 3, Blue Jackets 2
This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Friday.
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