The New Jersey Devils and New York Rangers square off at Madison Square Garden on Cyber Monday in what we think will be a thrilling NHL battle.
The Rangers come into this game as slight favorites at -125, while the Devils are +101 underdogs. Apparently, the bookmakers even think this game could be a toss-up, but nonetheless a high-scoring game with a total set at a high 7.5 goals.
So, what’s our prediction for the Devils vs the Rangers? Let’s break it down a bit and show you why we think the Devils will take it.
The New Jersey Devils are coming into this matchup following a tough 6-5 loss to the Caps on Saturday at home.
Despite the close loss, they showed they’ve got the offensive firepower. Stefan Noesen netted 2 goals and their top players continued to produce results throughout the game, but they simply couldn’t edge out the Capitals.
With an average of 3.48 goals per game, the Devils boast the NHL's 8th-best offense and a solid 6th-ranked defense as they’re allowing 2.79 goals per game.
Jesper Bratt (11 goals, 12 assists) and Nico Hischier (15 goals) have led the charge in the zone. The Devils are also extremely deadly on the power play as they’re converting at a league-best 33.7%. That’s insane. With a rate like that, any team that goes to the box should just concede a goal and call it a day. However, the Devils will look to leverage that efficiency against a Rangers penalty kill that ranks 2nd at 87.7%. So, power plays should be interesting.
The Devils have been road warriors for the most part as they’ve won 10 games away from home this season. They have also dominated in bounce-back situations, winning their last 5 games following a loss. Can they keep this streak alive?
The New York Rangers snapped a losing streak with a win over the Montreal Canadiens in their previous game on Saturday night.
Artemi Panarin starred with a single goal and an assist, while Igor Shesterkin was steady in the net keeping Montreal at only 3 goals. The Rangers are averaging 3.26 goals per game, with Panarin (13 goals) and Adam Fox (20 assists) keeping the offense alive throughout the game.
Defensively, they’ve been fairly strong, ranking 7th in goals allowed per game (2.83) and thriving on the PK. However, it’s the inconsistency that has plagued them recently.
The Rangers have lost 5 straight night games at Madison Square Garden and have even struggled to cover the puck line in these situations.
All in all, it’s just not looking good for the Rangers.
Recent trends obviously favor the Devils.
They’ve covered the puck line in 4 of their last 5 games following a loss and have outperformed the Rangers in night games this season.
In head-to-head matchups, the Devils have found success and they don’t look to slow down, particularly at MSG.
Key player props highlight the potential for Nico Hischier, who has recorded points in a whopping 9 straight games at Madison Square Garden, to make an impact. So, that might be a prop bet you want to take on this game.
On the other hand, the Rangers lean on Panarin and Chris Kreider, who have been fairly reliable producers against Metropolitan Division opponents. Panarin’s knack for multi-goal games might just keep New York competitive to the end.
The Devils come into this game as the more dynamic and consistent team. There’s no question about that. Their road form, combined with an elite PP unit and the Rangers' struggles at home, makes them the better pick.
The Devils’ balanced attack and strong bounce-back performances give them the edge heading into tonight’s game.
BettorsInsider Pick: New Jersey Devils Moneyline (+101)
Look for the Devils’ offense to control the game and for their defense to hold steady against a Rangers team still searching for consistency. And, although it’s not much, we like the plus money on this bet as well. Think of it as a Cyber Monday deal you won't want to miss.