There is just one meaningful NHL game today, with the depleted Canadiens facing a teetering NY Islanders side. This is critical mass for the Isles, who inexplicably lost to a struggling Capitals side on Monday. The Habs are 3-7, and have been outscored heavily in those losses. They are a very poor road team and have a shockingly long injury list. Montreal goalie Montembeault allowed seven goals in his last start. Isles' stellar net-minder Sorokin had one of his worst starts ever in the Capitals' game allowing three goal early. Expect him to bounce back today; he was exceptional in his three previous starts.

This is a season-defining game for the Islanders and I believe they will respond. They crushed the opposition in their two games previous to the Washington debacle. They are a very good home team with solid defense and have been overachieving on offense in their wins. Take the Islanders on the puck line to day at -1 1/2.