Panthers vs. Islanders predictions, spread pick and odds for Thursday

The New York Islanders are hosting the Florida Panthers to begin their 2022-23 NHL season. The Islanders were still completing their new arena at the beginning of last season and they had to start much of the first half of their season on the road. This year, the Islanders re-signed Mathew Barzal to a new eight-year contract. Florida made some moves over the summer.

The Panthers won the President's Trophy for the best record in the NHL last season. They finished with 122 points. The Islanders finished 16 points behind the Capitals and one spot ahead of Washington in Metro Division. Florida made several moves over the summer to improve their team. They beat the Islanders 5-1 and 6-2 in their first two meetings last year. Caesars offers a deposit match worth up to $1,000 in free bets.

The Panthers traded for Tkachuk and hired Paul Maurice as their head coach. The Panthers vs. Islanders game starts at 7:30 p.m. EST. Caesars Sportsbook offers a No Sweat First Bet up to $1,000. FanDuel offers free bets up until $1000. The game is listed at +192 odds on Fanduel. A $100 wager will profit $192 if the Panthers win by two or more goals. If the game goes against the Islanders, Fan Duel will credit the bettor's account with the amount they wagered.