Islanders Face Canadiens: Top Predictions, Picks & Odds for NHL Match

The Montreal Canadiens host the New York Islanders at the Bell Centre on March 21, 2026. Puck drop is set for 7:00 p.m. ET.

Both teams have favored defense in recent games. That trend shapes our Islanders and Canadiens predictions and picks tonight.

Why the low-total outlook

Montreal has allowed 2.71 goals per game over the past two weeks. New York has conceded just 2.17 per game in the same span.

New York’s two-week mark ranks third-best in the league. Both clubs have gone Under in five of their last six games.

Recent under trends

• The Islanders have hit Under 5.5 in four straight outings.
• The Canadiens have recorded back-to-back Under results.
• New York has cashed the Under in 53.6% of its games this season.
• The Under is 9-4 in the Islanders’ last 13 road games.

Top pick and same-game parlay

The leading pick is the Under 5.5 at +110. Low scoring and tight defense support this choice.

A recommended same-game parlay pairs Under 5.5 with Cole Caufield scoring anytime. Caufield has netted goals in three of his last four games.

He has six goals across his last ten contests. He also scored in the teams’ previous meeting on February 26.

Odds snapshot

Players and context

Montreal’s goaltender Jacob Fowler wears number 32. His presence factors into goal total projections.

Cole Caufield remains the Canadiens’ primary threat on offense. Expect him to draw attention from the Islanders’ defense.

Broadcast, injuries and notes

The game airs on MSGSN and SNE. Location is Bell Centre, Montreal, QC.

Odds were correct at publishing time and remain subject to change. Check updated lines and injury reports before wagering.

Article by Chris Faria, betting analyst with over eight years’ experience. Published on Filmogaz.com on March 21, 2026, at 12:20 PM ET.