Jan Rutta and Nico Sturm and William Eklund and Mikael Granlund and Tyler ... 6 in: Like that puck battle win from Goodrow behind Husso. Just rips it from Wings d-man. 8 in: Smith still working ...

Welcome back to NHL Predictions! Today, like every day, Last Word on Hockey looks at the games happening and gives our predictions for each. We’ll also break down head-to-head matchups and other factors that may play a part.

The New York Islanders (18-20-7) snapped their two-game skid with a 4-1 win over the lowly San Jose Sharks (14-28-6) on Saturday night. The Islanders fueled their win with a strong second period, scoring three goals.

- The Sharks are in eighth place in the Pacific Division with 34 points and a record of 14-27-6. San Jose is 1-4-0 in their last five games. - Mikael Granlund leads the Sharks in assists (25) and points (37) in his second season with San Jose.

Which front office is most ruthless? Who had the best glow-up? And which rookie has been most important to his team?

The Red Wings (20-19-4) had their seven-game winning streak snapped, one win short of equaling the longest in the league this season. San Jose is 14-26-6.

William Eklund had a goal and two assists and the San Jose Sharks ended Detroit’s seven-game winning streak, beating the Red Wings 6-3.

THROUGH GAMES OF FRIDAY, JAN. 24, 2025