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 the New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins. Be sure to check out our other NHL Predictions for your Sunday.
NHL Predictions
Boston Bruins vs Detroit Red Wings
Head-to-Head: Bruins 2-0
It’s the back-end of a back-to-back game between the Boston Bruins and Detroit Red Wings. The Bruins became the first team to clinch a spot into the Stanley Cup playoffs. Jeremy Swayman is the confirmed starter in goal for the Bruins. Boston rallied for a 3-2 win over Detroit on Saturday afternoon and have won four of its last five. The Bruins continue to be first in goals scored and second in goals allowed. Boston’s penalty kill is tops in the league and its power play is ninth in the league.
Detroit will go with Ville Husso in goal as it tries to get back onto a winning track. The Red Wings have lost four of their last five and are falling out of the wild card race. Detroit seems to be running out of gas as the season goes on. However, the Red Wings played well in the first part of Saturday’s game.
Boston may just have the tools to snap the President’s Trophy curse. The Bruins seem to have very few holes.
Prediction: Bruins win 4-1.
New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins
Head-t0-Head: Rangers 0-1 Penguins
Our featured and final game of NHL predictions has the Blueshirts and Penguins both coming off back-to-back games. Jaroslav Halak will likely get the start with Igor Shesterkin starting on Saturday evening. These two teams will play each other three times in the next week. The Rangers have gotten back on the winning track, but their last two games have gone to extra hockey. Patrick Kane has scored in two straight games, but the Rangers’ defence is still patchwork. The team does miss having Ryan Lindgren in the lineup.
Tristan Jarry should get the start, but always check social media before setting your fantasy lineup. Pittsburgh will be without the reacquired Nick Bonino due to an injury. The Penguins have won three of their last five as they make a push for the Rangers’ spot in third place in the Metropolitan Division. Sidney Crosby leads the team in goals with 28 and assists with 49 for 77 points so far. Pittsburgh’s 17th-ranked penalty kill will be tested by New York’s seventh-rated power play.
This is a key matchup for both teams as the Penguins try to track down the Rangers. Pittsburgh wins due to its edge in goal.
Prediction: Penguins win 4-3.
Main photo by: Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports
