Game Information:
- Matchup: Boston Bruins vs. New York Islanders
- Date: Tuesday, November 26
- Time: 7:00 PM EST
- Venue: UBS Arena, Elmont, NY
- Watch: ESPN+ (Islanders Broadcast)
- Boston Bruins: +136
- New York Islanders: -164
Preview
The Boston Bruins travel to Long Island for a divisional clash against the New York Islanders in a game where both teams will be navigating significant injuries on their blue line. The Islanders enter as the home favorites (-164), but recent roster news suggests this could be a tightly contested matchup.
The Islanders’ defense has taken a major hit, with defenseman Alexander Romanov being placed on injured reserve with an upper-body injury on November 19, according to reports. Romanov is a crucial part of the Islanders’ back end, and his absence will test the team’s depth and defensive structure. Playing at home in front of their notoriously loud fanbase will be an advantage, but they’ll need other defensemen to step up to fill the void left by Romanov.
Boston, however, is not without its own injury concerns. The Bruins are also dealing with a major loss on their defense, having placed defenseman Jordan Harris on long-term injured reserve on November 17. His absence for an extended period puts a strain on the Bruins’ defensive corps. Adding to their woes, forward Viktor Arvidsson was also recently placed on injured reserve, thinning out their depth.
With both teams missing key defensemen, this game could hinge on which squad adapts better. The Bruins, coming in as the +136 underdogs, present intriguing value for bettors who believe they can exploit an Islanders team missing one of its top blueliners. This matchup may come down to goaltending and which team’s offensive stars can take advantage of the depleted defenses.
Prediction
This is a tough game to call, with both teams missing key players from their defense. The Islanders have the benefit of home ice, which is a significant factor. However, the loss of Alexander Romanov cannot be overstated and levels the playing field considerably against a Bruins team that is also shorthanded on defense.
While the odds favor the Islanders, the Bruins have a history of playing a structured, resilient game on the road. The value is certainly on the Bruins at +136. However, the Islanders’ system is built to withstand personnel losses, and playing at UBS Arena gives them a distinct edge. Expect a gritty, low-scoring affair where one mistake could be the difference. We’ll give the slight edge to the home team to find a way to win a close one.
Prediction: Islanders 3, Bruins 2
Betting Lean: The Islanders are favored for a reason at home, but with both teams hobbled on defense, this game feels closer to a pick’em. The Islanders moneyline at -164 is the safer bet, but the value on the Bruins at +136 is tempting for those looking for a higher payout on a very possible road upset.
Sources:
Boston Bruins Injury Report and Status 2025-26 – CBS Sports
Boston Bruins Injury Status – ESPN
Bruins Injury Report: McAvoy and Kastelic Done For Season
Capitals vs. Bruins Injury Report Today – December 31
Boston Bruins Injury Report: Injury List & Updates – NESN.com
Boston Bruins Injury Report: Latest On Charlie McAvoy – Yahoo Sports
Predators vs. Bruins Injury Report Today – October 22 | Americus …
Deen’s Daily: Avs PK Depth; Gibson Returns to Anaheim; Updated …
Predators vs. Bruins Injury Report Today – October 22
Bruins injury report: Elias Lindholm ruled out of games this week