- This page contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
NY Islanders (32-21-5) at Montreal (32-17-8)
- When: Feb 26 2026, 7:00 PM
- Where: Bell Centre, Montreal, QC, CAN
- TV: MSGSN
NY Islanders vs Montreal NHL Preview & Pick
Moneyline: Montreal -145
Spread: Montreal -1.5 (+173)
Total: 6.0
New York Islanders Breakdown
The Islanders come out of the Olympic break sitting third in the Metropolitan Division with 69 points, chasing Pittsburgh while trying to create separation behind them. They closed the pre break schedule with back to back wins and have taken five of their last seven. Momentum matters, but breaks can either sharpen a team or cool it off.
New York’s biggest red flag from a betting perspective is the power play. They rank near the bottom of the league at 15.7 percent and are 0 for 10 over their last five games. That is a serious concern when facing a structured defensive team like Montreal. In tight games with a total set at 6.0, special teams often decide whether an underdog can steal one.
The Islanders will also need more depth scoring. Jonathan Drouin has just three goals in 51 games despite logging over 17 minutes a night. When secondary pieces are not producing, it puts heavy pressure on top lines and goaltending. That makes New York more reliant on low event hockey and grinding out results.
If the Islanders are going to cash as road dogs, they need discipline, strong five on five play and a clean performance from their goalie. Otherwise, their offensive limitations become magnified.
Montreal Canadiens Breakdown
Montreal returns from the pause in strong form, winning four of five and six of their last nine. They sit at 72 points, tied near the top of the Atlantic and holding a slight scheduling edge. That positioning matters this late in the season.
The Canadiens get a boost with Alex Newhook returning after missing 40 games with a fractured ankle. Before the injury, he posted 12 points in 17 games and was trending toward a productive year. Adding a player with speed and confidence into a lineup already playing well is a quiet but meaningful edge.
Montreal has been balanced and defensively responsible, which fits well with a 6.0 total. They are comfortable playing structured hockey and protecting leads. At home, with the crowd behind them, they tend to manage pace effectively.
With Montreal listed at -145, the market is pricing them as the steadier team coming out of the break.
Betting Prediction
The Canadiens have better recent form, home ice and a healthier lineup. New York’s power play struggles limit their comeback potential, and this projects as a tight, structured matchup. Montreal controls tempo and capitalizes on even strength chances.
Expect a playoff style feel with limited space and few special teams swings.
Score Prediction: Canadiens 3, Islanders 2
Pick: Montreal ML (-145)
Total: Under 6.0 (-105)
- NHL Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
