Montréal Canadiens vs New York Islanders Head-to-Head

Canadiens built their historical edge pre-2005, winning 74 of 127 decided meetings (58%) (plus 14 ties). In the shootout era they are 41-25 against each other (62% Canadiens). 14 historical ties live in the all-time ledger, all predating the 2005 shootout rule. Postseason history is deep: 22 playoff games between the two franchises. Games average a 2.2-goal margin, with the largest blowout coming via Islanders' 7-goal win. Across the last 20 decided meetings Canadiens hold a 11-9 edge, suggesting the modern balance leans their way. The 1990s produced the deepest sample with 44 recorded meetings, more than any other decade in the series. Their first recorded meeting fell in 1972, so the rivalry has spanned 54 seasons of NHL history. Most recent result: Canadiens won 4-1 on Apr 12, 2026.