NHL · October 8, 2026 · 7:40 PM ET
Chicago Blackhawks @ New York Islanders
Free LineCrush game report for Chicago Blackhawks @ New York Islanders on October 8, 2026, with matchup analysis and pick ideas generated for the daily slate. Reports can update as lineups, injuries, and odds develop, so confirm time-sensitive details before acting.
Matchup Analysis
Sorokin is the expected starter
Ilya Sorokin was first off at Wednesday’s optional practice, and Stefen Rosner said he was extremely confident Sorokin would start Thursday. His early-season .968 save percentage and 1.02 GAA make him a key factor in the Islanders’ home matchup.
SourceChicago is short-handed up front
Chicago remains short-handed up front with Andrew Mangiapane on injured reserve and Teuvo Teravainen out Thursday; the Blackhawks’ practice lines reflected Teravainen’s absence.
SourceIslanders have their own lineup questions
The Islanders have an injured-reserve absence, while Alexander Romanov is day-to-day after missing practice and seeing a doctor. Romanov’s injury could force an early decision on New York’s blue line.
SourceChicago arrives off a home-opening win
The Blackhawks beat St. Louis 4-2 Tuesday for their first win of the season; Sam Rinzel, Anton Frondell, Cole Smith and Frank Nazar scored, and all four appeared in Wednesday’s practice lineup.
SourcePick Ideas
Islanders moneyline
At around -167, the Islanders are a reasonable home-favorite moneyline after recently stifling New Jersey; pass if the price rises substantially.
Over 5.5 goals
Over 5.5 is around -125 and remains playable: Chicago’s four most recent games each finished with at least six total goals, while its penalty kill has been described as poor; the short sample makes it higher variance.
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