Like the Penguins, the Islanders have been a surprise this season. After selecting defenceman Matthew Schaefer first overall in the 2025 NHL Entry Draft, the Islanders have quickly accelerated what was thought to be a rebuild, as they now find themselves fighting for a playoff spot. Like the Penguins, New York comes into this game on the second half of a back-to-back following a loss. They lost last night to the Washington Capitals 4-1. Washington, as well as the Columbus Blue Jackets, are a pair of Metropolitan Division teams threatening the Penguins and the Islanders for their divisional playoff spots. With an overall record of 30-21-5, the Islanders hold just a two-point lead over the Blue Jackets for that third spot in the division, making this an important game for both teams. 

Mathew Barzal was the lone goal scorer in last night’s game. With his 15th goal of the season, Barzal has 47 points in 55 games this season. A lot of attention in this game is going to go to Calder Trophy favourite Matthew Schaefer. The 18-year-old defenceman has shattered expectations, scoring 15 goals and 37 points in 55 games. Watch for Canadian Olympian Bo Horvat in this game as well. The star centre has 21 goals and 35 points in 42 games played this season. 

With David Rittich starting against the Capitals last night, expect Ilya Sorokin to play against Pittsburgh. The superstar Russian netminder has been incredible this season, with a record of 18-13-2 and a .916 save percentage.Â