Must-Win Matchup: How to Watch the Sharks vs. Islanders Tonight

ELMONT, NY—It’s an early-season battle for momentum tonight as the winless San Jose Sharks (0-3-2) travel to UBS Arena to face the New York Islanders (2-3-0). This crucial matchup features both teams trying to climb out of the basement of their respective divisions.

The game is loaded with anticipation as it showcases the last two No. 1 overall picks in the NHL Draft: Macklin Celebrini (Sharks, 2024) and Matthew Schaefer (Islanders, 2025).

Game Information and Broadcast Details

The contest between the Sharks and Islanders is set for prime time on the East Coast:

DetailInformation
MatchupSan Jose Sharks at New York Islanders
VenueUBS Arena, Elmont, New York
DateTuesday, October 21, 2025
Puck Drop7:00 p.m. ET / 4:00 p.m. PT
Regional TVMSG Sportsnet (NY Metro) / NBC Sports California (Bay Area)

How to Watch and Live Stream

Since this is a regional broadcast, viewing options depend on your geographical location.

I. Streaming Options (U.S.)

  • ESPN+ (Out-of-Market): Most games that are not nationally televised are streamed exclusively on ESPN+ for viewers outside the local San Jose and New York markets.
  • Fubo (Regional Access): If you are within the local viewing territory for New York (MSG) or San Jose (NBCSCA), streaming services like Fubo may carry the regional sports network (RSN) in your package. New subscribers can typically take advantage of a free trial.
  • MSG+ App (Local Stream): Local Islanders fans can stream the MSG Sportsnet broadcast through the official MSG+ app (subscription required).

II. Radio Broadcast

  • SiriusXM Radio: Listen to the live audio broadcast via SiriusXM (check channel 81 for the Islanders and 86 for the Sharks feeds).

Team News and Key Matchup

The Sharks are desperate for their first victory of the season (0-3-2) and are struggling defensively, ranking near the bottom of the league in goals allowed. Rookie Macklin Celebrini leads the team in points but needs help. The Islanders are on a two-game winning streak (2-3-0) and are led by forward Bo Horvat and emerging defenseman Matthew Schaefer.

  • Islanders Injury Notes: Key players Semyon Varlamov (G) and Pierre Engvall (LW) are currently listed on injured reserve.

Conclusion

Tonight’s matchup is crucial for the rebuilding Sharks, but the Islanders will be favorites at home as they attempt to continue their modest winning streak. With the broadcast available regionally and on ESPN+ out-of-market, fans have clear avenues to follow the action as these two young teams clash.


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Disclaimer

The game date, time (7:00 p.m. ET), and TV channels (MSG Sportsnet, NBC Sports California) are based on the official NHL schedule. Regional restrictions apply to viewing on ESPN+ and local RSNs. Readers should verify the schedule and local blackout rules with the official league and platform websites.

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