Game Details:
- Date: Monday, November 20
- Time: 7:10 PM EST
- Venue: Little Caesars Arena, Detroit, MI
- Moneyline Odds: Islanders +114 | Red Wings -137
Overview
The Detroit Red Wings host the New York Islanders in an Eastern Conference matchup on Monday night. The Red Wings enter the contest as home favorites, looking to capitalize on their advantage at Little Caesars Arena. The Islanders, coming in as slight underdogs, will be tasked with overcoming a key injury on their blue line as they look to steal a win on the road.
New York Islanders Breakdown
The Islanders’ defensive identity will be tested as they navigate injuries to their roster. According to a November 18 report from ESPN, defenseman Alexander Romanov was placed on injured reserve with an upper-body injury. His absence is a significant blow to the team’s defensive corps.
Additionally, forward Simon Holmstrom is listed as day-to-day, making his status for Monday’s game uncertain. Playing without one, and potentially two, regular contributors puts pressure on the rest of the lineup to step up, especially on the defensive end, which is the hallmark of the Islanders’ system. To pull off the upset, they will need a disciplined performance and a strong showing from their goaltender.
Detroit Red Wings Breakdown
The Red Wings return home favored to win, a reflection of their play and the Islanders’ current injury situation. Detroit is also monitoring an injury of its own, as a November 19 report from MLive.com noted that forward Elmer Soderblom is doubtful for the week with an undisclosed injury.
Despite the potential absence of Soderblom, Detroit’s depth will be looked upon to generate offense. Playing in front of their home crowd, the Red Wings will aim to pressure the Islanders’ depleted defense early and control the pace of the game.
Prediction
This game is likely to be decided by which team better handles its roster adversity. The Islanders are built on a “next man up” philosophy, but the loss of a key defenseman like Romanov is difficult to overcome on the road.
The Red Wings are in a good position as the home favorite. Expect them to test the Islanders’ new defensive pairings and try to exploit any gaps left by Romanov’s absence. While the Islanders are known for their resilience, the combination of being on the road and missing a top-four defenseman is a tall order. The betting odds lean towards Detroit, and for good reason.
Final Score Prediction: Red Wings 4, Islanders 2
Sources:
New York Islanders Injury Report and Status 2025-26 – CBS Sports
New York Islanders Injury Status – ESPN
New York Islanders Injuries – Yahoo Sports
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