The New York Rangers (26-23-4) are set to host the Pittsburgh Penguins (22-24-9) at Madison Square Garden on Friday, February 7, 2025. The Rangers are coming off a 3-2 victory over the Boston Bruins, where they overcame a 2-1 deficit with third-period goals from Chris Kreider, Artemi Panarin, and Vincent Trocheck. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin contributed significantly, stopping 15 of 17 shots.
Prior to this win, the Rangers secured a 4-2 victory against the Vegas Golden Knights but suffered a 6-3 loss to the Bruins earlier. Currently sixth in the Metropolitan Division with 56 points, the Rangers average 2.98 goals per game while allowing 3.06. Their power play operates at 20.9%, and their penalty kill stands at 82.5%. Artemi Panarin leads the team with 23 goals and 34 assists, while defenseman Adam Fox has contributed 42 points. Shesterkin holds an 18-18-2 record, a 2.86 goals-against average, and a .906 save percentage.
The Penguins recently fell to the New Jersey Devils in a shootout, 3-2, despite goals from Kevin Hayes and Rickard Rakell. Goaltender Alex Nedeljkovic made 19 saves on 21 shots. Before this, Pittsburgh achieved victories over the Nashville Predators (3-0) and another opponent (3-2). Currently contending with the Philadelphia Flyers for the bottom spot in the Metropolitan Division with 53 points, the Penguins average 2.87 goals per game and concede 3.47. Their power play is effective 25% of the time, and their penalty kill is at 79.2%. Sidney Crosby leads the team in scoring but is questionable for this game. Rickard Rakell has added 24 goals and 22 assists. Nedeljkovic’s record stands at 11-9-5, with a 2.97 goals-against average and a .899 save percentage.
Prediction:
The Rangers have been strong at home, especially against Metropolitan Division opponents, winning their last seven games in such scenarios. Conversely, the Penguins have struggled on the road within the division, losing their last six. Additionally, the Rangers have covered the puck line in eight of their last nine matchups against the Penguins. Given these trends and the Rangers’ recent form, they are favored to secure a victory in this matchup.