The Philadelphia Flyers and New York Islanders are set to face off at UBS Arena on Friday, November 28, 2025, in a Metropolitan Division clash that highlights two teams with contrasting challenges. While the Flyers have struggled with slow starts and offensive consistency, the Islanders are grappling with a power play that has gone cold.
Flyers' Resilience Tested by Inconsistent Offense
The Philadelphia Flyers (12-7-3) have demonstrated resilience this season, often coming from behind after conceding the first goal. This was evident in their recent 4-2 victory against the Florida Panthers, where they erased a 2-0 deficit. However, this reliance on comebacks underscores a persistent issue: their inability to consistently generate offense. The Flyers rank near the bottom of the league in goals scored, averaging just 2.7 per game. They are 29th in the NHL in goals scored. Their struggles are further highlighted by their ranking as dead last in shot attempts and fifth-to-last in assists.
Despite the offensive challenges, the Flyers' defense has been a strong point, allowing only 2.8 goals per game, ranking them fifth in the NHL. Goaltender Dan Vladar has also been a key component, demonstrated in the win against the Panthers where he made 25 saves. Key offensive players for the Flyers include Trevor Zegras (7 goals, 14 assists) and Matvei Michkov, who has scored five goals in his last 10 games. Tyson Foerster has also been on a hot streak, with four goals in his last four games.
Islanders' Power Play Struggles Hamper Playoff Aspirations
The New York Islanders (13-9-2) are facing a critical issue with their power play, which has plummeted to 31st in the league with a conversion rate of just 12.66%. They have only scored 10 power-play goals this season. Their power-play drought has reached 0-for-27, a concerning trend that has directly impacted their recent performances. In their recent game against the Boston Bruins, where they lost 3-1, the Islanders went 0-for-4 on the power play, and allowed a shorthanded goal. Coach Patrick Roy acknowledged the need for better shots on net and less "cute" plays during power plays. Kyle Palmieri echoed this sentiment, admitting the goals simply aren't coming.
Despite the power-play woes, the Islanders' defense has been solid, ranking 12th in the league in goals against. Offensively, they are led by Kyle Palmieri (6 goals, 11 assists) and Bo Horvat (5 goals, 4 assists in the last 10 games). Rookie Matthew Schaefer has also made an impact, earning Calder Trophy consideration.
Game Prediction and Betting Insights
The Islanders are favored to win. The computer prediction estimates an average of 5.8 goals, suggesting a potential over.
