New matchups mark MLK Day NHL schedule

With 10 games scheduled for Martin Luther King Jr. day, hockey fans will have no lack of gameplay to indulge in. With a couple of series continuing while the rest begin new matchups, these games could prove to be crucial measuring sticks for which teams will compete come May 11.

Boston Bruins at New York Islanders
Both teams in this Golden Jersey matchup split their opening series matchups. Both teams face questions as to whether they can compete in the tough East Division. When every game is with a four-pointer in terms of net points, this will play heavily into the final rankings. The series could go either way, but I think Semyon Varlamov can win this game against a Bruins offense that had trouble against the New Jersey Devils’ defense last series.
Prediction: 3-2, Islanders

Buffalo Sabres at Philadelphia Flyers
This game should be a quality matchup as the Sabres look to get their season back on track. As the only winless team in the East Division, the Sabres will need to step up their game to beat the potently stacked Flyers, a team that defecated all over the Penguins in its last series. Taylor Hall and Jack Eichel will likely carry the offensive load for Buffalo while Jeff Skinner will look to earn his keep. For the Flyers, Travis Konecny will look to continue his goal scoring efforts after a hat trick against the Penguins in his last game. The Flyers should win this hands down, but it will be a tight game throughout.
Prediction: 5-4 OT, Flyers

Arizona Coyotes at Vegas Golden Knights
Arizona stole three points from the Sharks in its last series as the Yotes offense looked solid. Darcy Kuemper and Antti Raanta both played out of their mind against the Sharks’ high shooting squad. For Vegas, the Knights beat Anaheim after a third period onslaught shot down the Ducks’ hopes to win game one. They won overtime in seven seconds in their second game after tying the game late. I saw the Knights’ goal as controversial as Max Pacioretty hauled down Adam Henrique when he tried to play the puck. While other players have been called all season for this, an uncalled Pacioretty scored the Knights’ OT winner on a slick 2-on-1 pass from Mark Stone. I don’t think the Knights are playing up to their highest caliber. A young Yotes team looking to play king slayer to their manufactured rivals in the desert will likely play spoiler for the Knights faithful.
Prediction: 5-2, Coyotes