Charlie Cummings shares a preview, prediction and pick for Tuesday’s NHL matchup between the Boston Bruins and New York Islanders.

Somehow, every team in the NHL Eastern Conference is .500 or better in the early going. The Boston Bruins and New York Islanders both sit exactly at .500, hoping to take a step forward after disappointing 2024/25 seasons. Tuesday’s game is another chance for these teams to prove that they can take the leap.

On DraftKings Sportsbook, New York is a firm -155 Moneyline favorite at home, and the game’s total is set at 6.5 goals. Boston is the road underdog, priced at +130 on the Moneyline. Let’s get into a prediction and pick for this Islanders-Bruins showdown.

Bruins vs. Islanders prediction, preview

Nobody expected much from the New York Islanders this season. Last season was a rough one, but they were rewarded with the No. 1 pick, using that selection on blue-chip prospect Matthew Schaefer. The 18-year-old is everything they hoped for and more, posting five goals and 10 points through his first 12 career games. He may change the fortunes of New York’s team sooner than later.

Boston came into the year with a similar lack of expectations. Gone are the days of Patrice Bergeron, Zdeno Chara, and Brad Marchand (now a Florida Panther). David Pastrnak is the last holdover core piece of their Stanley Cup-contending teams, and while talented, he’s not enough to deliver Cup hopes alone. It’s a transition season for the B’s, but their early offensive performance may delay the inevitable selling a bit longer. As long as Pastrnak is around, they have a chance in any given game.

BOS comeback effort fell short, but it was certainly an eventful final few minutes for David Pastrnak including an empty net save on Brandon Hagel, and a great open ice hit on Nikita Kucherov. pic.twitter.com/ByOrmfEFkK

— Brian DeFelice (@briandefelice_) October 13, 2025

Who comes out on top in this battle of scrappy East squads?

Bruins vs. Islanders pick, best bet

Both teams are light on defense and deep with scoring talent. The high total is more than earned here, but I think this is closer to a coin flip contest than our oddsmakers imply. Give me the road value for the Bruins, who always manage to draw a good road crowd in New York.

Best Bet: Boston Bruins (+130)