New York Rangers - Washington Capitals predictions and free betting tips [21/04/2024]

The New York Rangers and Washington Capitals are set to face off in the first round of the Eastern Conference play-off.

New York Rangers

The New York Rangers ended their regular season with an impressive record of 55-23-4, accumulating a total of 114 points and topping the NHL leaderboard. They claimed victory in five of their last seven games, No mean feat, dominating against the Senators, Islanders, Canadiens, Red Wings, and Devils. The team averaged 3.39 goals per game and conceded 2.76, successfully exploiting 26.4% of power play opportunities and deflecting 84.5% of shots whilst shorthanded.

Artemi Panarin had the best season of his career, netting 49 goals, assisting in 71 more, rounding up to a total of 120 points, the third-best score in franchise history. Other key players include Chris Kreider with 75 points (39 goals and 36 assists) and Vincent Trocheck with 77 points (25 goals and 52 assists). Mika Zibanejad also significantly contributed with 72 points, including 26 goals and 46 assists.

In goal, Igor Shesterkin had a season record of 36-17-2, with a goals against average of 2.58 and a save percentage of 91.3%. Johnathan Quick also demonstrated good performance with an 18-6-2 record, 2.62 goals against average and 91.1% save percentage. With the home ice advantage in the playoffs, the Rangers are geared up for their post-season standoff against the Washington Capitals, hoping to carry their successful regular season form into a triumphant playoff run.

Washington Capitals

The Washington Capitals wrapped up their season with a 40-31-11 performance, amassing an overall total of 98 points, securing their playoff spot for the third consecutive year. Their success is the result of a rebuilding period that started in 2018 and culminated in 2021. The team set franchise records for wins and points, concluding the season by winning their final match against Philadelphia, finishing in the 8th position in the Eastern Conference. Dylan Strome led the team with 67 points, including 27 goals and 40 assists, while Alexander Ovechkin racked up 65 points from 31 goals and 34 assists. John Carlson added 52 points with 42 assists, while Tom Wilson tallied 18 goals, making a total contribution of 35 points.

In the crease, Charlie Lindgren took up main goalie duties after Darcy Kuemper started the season on the injured list. Lindgren secured a season record of 25-16-7 in 48 games, with a goals against average of 2.67, and a save percentage of 91.1. Backup goalie Johnathan Quick maintained a 18-6-2 record with 2.62 goals against average and a save percentage of 91.1.

Despite a goal difference of minus 37, the team showcased improved performance throughout the season, ending on a high note after a string of victories in the final matches. The Washington Capitals hope to translate their regular-season successes into the playoffs, as they commence their quest for the Stanley Cup in a series against the top team in the East.

Head-to-Head

The Capitals managed only 2 victories in the last 5 regular season match-ups, with wins recorded at 4:0 in 2023 and 3:2 on 13 January 2024. In their most recent clash, the Rangers were victorious with a 2:1 score.

Prediction for the New York Rangers - Washington Capitals match

Washington made the playoffs on experience, but even with Ovechkin's efforts, the team is unlikely to overpower the mightily in-form New York. With Panarin playing the best hockey of his career, I predict a win for the Rangers.