Adam Williams presents his prediction for the NHL match.
The Rangers managed to halt their losing streak, snapping a run of five consecutive defeats in regulation time. They clinched a hard-fought victory at home against the Montreal Canadiens (4:3). However, maintaining this success will be challenging as they face the second-best team in the Eastern Conference, the New Jersey Devils.
New York Rangers
The return of Chris Kreider (9+0) has instantly revitalised the Rangers' power play. They capitalised on three opportunities with the man advantage in their clash with the Montreal Canadiens, ending a goal drought that lasted eight games. Even when Kreider isn’t scoring himself, he draws defenders’ attention, creating space for Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad, who each netted a goal. In addition, emerging rookies are ready to step up as the old guard ages. Forward William Cuylle has scored points in eight of the last ten games and has earned a place on the top line.
New Jersey Devils
The Devils' defensive issues have once again surfaced, as a successful stretch has turned into a slump. Over the last three games, the Devils have conceded a hefty 13 goals. Their previous match against the Washington Capitals (5:6) was the third highest in expected goals against (3.94) for them this season. Yet, their offence remains in top form. The top line of Nico Hischier, Timo Meier, and Tomas Nosek ranks second in the league for xGF% among all lines that have logged at least an hour together at 71.9%. Moreover, the Devils boast the best power play in the league, operating at an impressive 33.7% efficiency.
New York Rangers vs New Jersey Devils Prediction
Both teams certainly have high-level attacking talent, but they also share problems in goal and structural defensive organisation. We predict that both teams will score more than 2.5 goals each.
