The Vancouver Canucks are coming off a massive and highly unexpected 7-1 victory over the league’s hottest team, the Calgary Flames. Following impressive outings from J.T. Miller, Elias Pettersson and Bo Horvat, Vancouver looks to have incurred some confidence as they prepare for the stretch run of the season.
Now 25-22-6, the Canucks remain sixth in the Pacific Division and sit three points out of the second wild card spot in the Western Conference. With 29 games left in the season, Vancouver needs to continue to build on the momentum gained over the last two games if they wish to play meaningful hockey this spring.
The Canucks opponents on Sunday, the New York Rangers, are one of the better teams in the opposing Eastern Conference. Currently with a record of 33-14-5, the Rangers occupy the third spot in the Central Division. New York are 6-3-1 in their last ten games, and have been one of the league’s most consistent teams this season.
Led by head coach Gerard Gallant, the Rangers boast talents including the likes of Artemi Panarin, Chris Kreider, and Adam Fox. New York is backed by stellar special teams play as their power play ranks fourth in the NHL at 26.2%, whilst their 83.7% penalty kill is seventh in the league.
These two teams met earlier in the season back on November 2nd with Vancouver winning that matchup 3-2 in overtime.
The Rangers are on the second half of a back-to-back after losing 1-0 to Pittsburgh on Saturday afternoon and will likely turn to back up Alexander Georgiev in net against the Canucks.
After another stellar performance against the Flames, Thatcher Demko should be back between the pipes in Madison Square Garden on Sunday.
The odds for this game are courtesy of WynnBET Sportsbook, the official betting partner of FanSided.
Betting Odds
Moneyline
Canucks +120
Rangers -140
Goal Total
Over 6.0 goals at -105
Under 6.0 goals at -115
Puckline
Canucks +1.5 at -215
Rangers -1.5 at +170
Prediction
Following back-to-back impressive victories, which included one over the leagues hottest team, the Canucks have momentum on their side. Going into the mecca that is MSG should provide a little bit of extra motivation to keep the team trending in the right direction. Many may fear a let down performance after a massive victory, but given Vancouver’s playoff outlook, that cannot be afforded. The Rangers are a great young team, however will be on their second game in two days which included a road game in Pittsburgh the game day before. The Canucks may still find themselves just short in what should be an entertaining game, but I expect them to keep the contest close all 60 minutes.
Vancouver covers the +1.5 puckline.
Pick: Canucks +1.5 at -215
What are your thoughts on this upcoming game between the Canucks and Rangers? What bets will you be placing on the game? Let us know your thoughts down below in the comment section!