NHL Picks and Predictions for 5/16/21 - Free NHL Picks

The Islanders limped into the postseason, going 1-4 in their last 5 games. Pittsburgh heads into this game winners of three straight and have averaged 4.1 goals per game over their last 5. They will be at home where they won 78.5% of their games during the regular season and all 4 against the Islanders. Tristan Jerry was in net for all 4 of those wins and allowed just 1.75 goals per game; he will get the nod in Sunday’s opener.

 Pick: Pittsburgh Penguins -130

Minnesota Wild +140 Vegas Golden Knights -160 O/U: 5.5

3:00PM EST

These teams split the regular season series, but Vegas won both games at home. They have won 4 of their last 5 and averaged 3.8 goals per game. Minnesota has allowed 4 goals per game over their last 5 and were not the same team on the road this year, winning just half of their games. In addition to being one of the best offenses at home during the regular season, Vegas was stingy on the defensive end. They ranked 4th in the NHL with just 2.14 goals allowed per game.

Pick: Vegas Golden Knights -160

Tampa Bay Lightning -125 Florida Panthers +105 O/U: 5.5

7:30PM EST

Florida was one of the best teams at home this season, with a 20-5-3 record. They also ranked 2nd with 36.5 shots per game at home. Florida won the last two games of the season at home against Tampa Bay, both by a 4-goal margin. I know the playoffs are a different animal, but I will ride the current momentum of the Panthers and back the home dogs in this one.

Pick: Florida Panthers +105