Main Photo: Jessica Alcheh-USA TODAY Sports
Welcome back to another day of NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are happening and gives our predictions for each one, breaking down head-to-head and other factors that may play in. We also have a featured game of the day, which is considered must-watch TV. Today’s featured game for NHL Predictions is the New New York Rangers vs Vancouver Canucks.
NHL Predictions
Buffalo Sabres vs Anaheim Ducks
Head-to-Head: Sabres 1 – 0 Ducks
It is a short one for NHL predictions today with just two games on our late slate. The first of them will see the Buffalo Sabres square off against the Anaheim Ducks. This is game two of their season series, with Buffalo taking the first one 6-3 roughly a month ago. The Sabres are pushing for playoffs as they currently sit five points out. While that isn’t right on the doorstep, it is a vast improvement over the past few years.
The Ducks on the other hand would be more than OK losing each game from here on out. They are on the hunt for the first overall pick. They currently sit in 30th overall. While they do still have talent, look for the Sabres to come out hungry for two points. After all, these are the teams they need to be winning against to keep pace in a tightly contested Atlantic division.
Prediction: Sabres win 4-1.
New York Rangers vs Vancouver Canucks
Head-to-Head: Rangers 1 – 0 Canucks
Another NHL predictions matchup where the two teams are having opposite seasons. The Rangers just pulled off a massive trade for Vladimir Tarasenko. Whereas the Canucks have been sellers, which started with their captain Bo Horvat. However, these two teams did play in New York just a week ago and it was a close game. The Rangers pulled out a 4-3 win, but the Canucks kept them honest.
Spencer Martin was placed on waivers the other day which likely means Collin Delia will get the start. On the other side of things, Igor Shesterkin will likely get the start in net. The Rangers haven’t played in four days so he will be well-rested. This could be quite a mismatch. All eyes will be on Tarasenko and his impact on the lineup, but look for the real difference to be in net.
Prediction: Rangers win 3-0.
