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Penguins-Islanders: A reminder that NHL betting not for faint of heart

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After defeating the Pittsburgh Penguins, 4-3, in overtime Wednesday night in their NHL Eastern Conference series opener, the New York Islanders are now betting favorites to advance to the second round.

That may be short-lived. If Pittsburgh can break serve with a win Friday night in Game 2 (MSG, MSG+, 7:30 p.m.), the Penguins would become prohibitive favorites with home-ice advantage over the final five games.

Why is the math so volatile within an NHL playoff series? Many games are seen as virtual 50/50 coin flips, with matchups showing a clear favorite often only representing 60/40 for the favorite.