Islanders vs. Flyers Game 6 Prediction, Stanley Cup Playoff Odds
One of two outcomes is happening Thursday evening: either the Islanders are converting on their second attempt to eliminate an opponent this postseason for the third-straight time, or the Flyers are forcing the first Eastern Conference Game 7 in the NHL bubble.
Both teams are only still playing due to Philadelphia’s 4-3 overtime win Tuesday. The Flyers earned their second overtime win this series, providing Alain Vigneault’s club some much-needed momentum.
Flyers vs. Islanders Betting Analysis
Scott Laughton’s tip-in and fourth of the playoffs came at a crucial time for Philadelphia. The Flyers scored more than two goals for just the second time this series, as New York’s postseason-best 1.86 goals against average per game has stood tall for the most part.
The stakes only get higher in Game 6. The Islanders are looking to book a plane ticket to Edmonton for their first Eastern Conference Final since 1993, while the Flyers are aiming for a two-game win streak going into a do-or-die showdown Saturday.
Oddsmakers currently have New York as a -115 favourite to close out the series Thursday.
Philadelphia Flyers
It’s no surprise that Philly had three players break their scoreless streak in the bubble, and they ended up winning the game. Veterans Claude Giroux, James van Riemsdyk, and Matt Niskanen all tallied their first of the postseason in Game 5. In net Carter Hart played good enough, stopping 29 of 32 shots in a game where the Flyers controlled most of the play.
Philadelphia should be looking for the same formula in Game 6: get pucks on net, have your goal scorers finish chances, and let Hart get it done in the crease.
Forward Sean Couturier left Game 5 before overtime and did not practice Wednesday. His status will be something to keep an eye on ahead of Thursday night’s contest.
New York Islanders
New York has yet to lose multiple games to the same opponent in the bubble, so it’s safe to say their first shot of adversity has hit. But what better coach to steer the ship than Barry Trotz?
Coming off a loss in the bubble, the Islanders are 3-0 with a combined 12-2 score. And even though they lost Tuesday, it was a valiant effort from the Isles who scored two goals in the final five minutes to even get the game to overtime.
New York’s also dealing with uncertainty with one of their top-forward’s health status. Mathew Barzal took a stick to the face in Game 5 and did not return. Trotz said Wednesday he has moderate concern about Barzal’s status for Game 6.
PHI
NYI