New York Islanders vs Columbus Blue Jackets Picks and Predictions for Sunday December 28 2025
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The New York Islanders head to Nationwide Arena on Sunday afternoon to take on the Columbus Blue Jackets, with puck drop scheduled for 5:00 PM ET on ESPN+. This matchup features an Islanders team that has been reliable on the road against a Columbus squad trying to find more consistency at home. For bettors searching for free NHL picks, this game offers a clear contrast in defensive structure and goaltending stability.
New York Islanders Road Form and Playing Style
New York Islanders enter this contest with a 20-13-4 overall record and a solid 9-6-2 mark away from home. The Islanders are not a high-flying offensive team, but they are disciplined, structured, and comfortable playing close games. Over their last five outings, New York is 2-3, with wins against New Jersey and Tampa Bay showing their ability to grind out results against quality opponents.
Statistically, the Islanders average 2.81 goals per game while allowing just 2.70 goals against. That defensive balance has kept them competitive even when the offense stalls. Their penalty kill sits at 81.6%, and while the power play is modest at 16.4%, New York is rarely reckless with the puck, which limits opponent chances.
Columbus Blue Jackets Home Outlook
Columbus Blue Jackets come into Sunday with a 15-15-6 overall record and a respectable 7-6-3 home mark. Columbus has shown flashes of offensive creativity, but defensive lapses and inconsistent goaltending have made it difficult to build momentum. The Blue Jackets are 2-3 in their last five games, with a recent road win in Los Angeles standing out as a confidence booster.
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Columbus is averaging 2.89 goals per game but allowing 3.44 goals against, which is a key concern against a structured team like the Islanders. Their power play has been more productive than New York’s at 20.7%, but the penalty kill (74.3%) has been vulnerable, especially in tight games.
Goaltending Matchup Breakdown
New York’s strength lies in net. Ilya Sorokin has posted a 12-10-2 record with a 2.55 goals-against average and a .910 save percentage, while David Rittich has been reliable in support with a 2.42 GAA and .913 save percentage. Sorokin is listed as day-to-day, so Rittich could be called upon, but either option provides stability.
For Columbus, Jet Greaves leads the way with a 2.69 GAA and .906 save percentage, while Elvis Merzlikins has struggled, carrying a 4.04 GAA and .877 save percentage. If Merzlikins draws the start, the Islanders’ patient offensive approach could create sustained pressure.
Injury Notes and Lineup Impact
The Islanders have several key names listed as day-to-day, including Bo Horvat and Ilya Sorokin, while Kyle Palmieri remains on injured reserve. Their lineup depth has allowed them to remain competitive despite these absences.
Columbus is monitoring Zach Werenski, who is listed as day-to-day. His availability matters greatly, as he is a major driver of offense from the blue line and helps stabilize their transition game.
Picks and Betting Prediction
This game profiles as a slower-paced, defensive-oriented matchup. New York’s ability to control tempo and limit high-danger chances gives them a clear edge, especially if Columbus struggles in net. The Blue Jackets can score, but their defensive inconsistencies make it hard to trust them against a disciplined opponent.
From a betting perspective, the Islanders are the side I trust more, particularly if they dictate pace early. The under is also worth consideration given New York’s defensive tendencies and Columbus’ difficulty finishing consistently. Betting on sports and on the Islanders is easy, but even easier if you use the best sportsbooks. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for the Blue Jackets with the Novig promo code. Make sure when you place your bet on Islanders vs Blue Jackets you are using the BetMGM bonus code.
Final Score Prediction
New York Islanders 3, Columbus Blue Jackets 2
Expect a tight game where structure and goaltending make the difference, with the Islanders edging out Columbus in a one-goal decision.
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