Main Photo: Russell LaBounty-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 is between the Winnipeg Jets and the New York Rangers.
NHL Predictions
New York Islanders vs Pittsburgh Penguins
Head to Head: Islanders 2 – 0 Penguins
The first game on our NHL Predictions is a Metropolitan Division showdown. After meeting just a few nights ago, the New York Islanders take on the Pittsburgh Penguins again. The Islanders won that game in comeback fashion (5-4), while also defeating this same team early in the year. They have outscored the Penguins this season 10-5.
New York is coming off a bad loss. Ilya Sorokin should see the crease since Varlamov got the start last game. Pittsburgh is coming off two losses in a row and both to division rivals. This will have a playoff-type feel to it as both teams are fighting for every two points.
Prediction: Islanders defeat Penguins 4-3.
Winnipeg Jets vs New York Rangers
Head to Head: Jets 0 – 0 Rangers
Our featured game on the NHL Predictions is poised to be a great matchup. The Winnipeg Jets travel to face the New York Rangers. Both teams are the cream of the crop in their respective divisions.
The Rangers have gone 6-1 since the all-star break and are coming off a successful Western Canadian road trip. Winnipeg has gone 3-1 in their last four and begins their road trip through the tri-state area.
The highlight of this game is goaltending. Connor Hellebuyck has been a bright spot all season and should get the start here tonight. He ranks third in goals saved above expected. Igor Shesterkin has been on fire lately, going 4-0-1 in his last five games. Don’t expect a lot of goals with those two between the pipes.
Prediction: Rangers defeat Jets 3-2.
