New York Islanders vs. Pittsburgh Penguins Picks and Prediction for Thursday, October 9, 2025

By: Jake Allman Published 10/09/2025, 12:10 AM ET

PPG Paints Arena hosts an early-season tilt as the Islanders visit the Penguins at 7:00 PM ET on ESPN+. The market says New York is a short favorite at -120 on the moneyline with -1.5 at +200, while Pittsburgh is EVEN, with +1.5 at -275. The total sits at 5.5. Pittsburgh opened its season 1-0-0 after a 3-0 win at the Rangers, powered by Justin Brazeau’s two goals and a shutout by Arturs Silovs. Ice cold takes, red hot wins — check our daily NHL picks.

Islanders Preview

New York opens its season with a roster that retooled over the summer and a demand by owners and fans to rebound. Last season’s attack was below average at 2.71 goals per game and a 12.6% power play, so a healthier season from Mathew Barzal and support from Bo Horvat are critical. New faces like Jonathan Drouin and rookie blue-liner Matthew Schaefer add potential, and Ilya Sorokin remains a talented goalie even after not having a strong season.

Penguins Preview

Pittsburgh has star power and a new coach in Dan Muse. Evgeni Malkin had a pair of assists, Brazeau scored, and Silovs stopped all 25 shots for his first NHL regular-season shutout. The Penguins also carry positive preseason momentum and will be making their home debut. Injuries exist on both sides, but will not come into play in this rivalry.

Penguins vs Islanders Pick

This will be close from the start with the power play and penalty likely deciding the game late. If Sorokin starts, New York’s ability to win increases. Pittsburgh appears to be in midseason form, limiting open looks in Game 1, while the Isles’ revamped attack may take a few games to click on the road. Expect tough neutral-zone play and fewer odd-man rushes for both. The combination of Pittsburgh’s early form and home ice advantage at even money is hard to pass up.

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Final Score Prediction: Penguins 3, Islanders 2.

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