LiontipsPittsburgh vs Rangers NHL Match Preview and Betting Odds
Command Analysis
Current Form
The Penguins spent last season fighting for a spot in the Stanley Cup playoffs but ultimately fell short. A few key points were lost due to frustrating defeats in the final matches. Despite these lackluster results, the team opted against major roster changes, giving their top two lines another shot this season.
Pittsburgh did not have the best start to their preseason, suffering two consecutive losses to Buffalo. However, they quickly recovered and made amends with their fans. Once the Penguins began deploying their star players on the ice, they found success, finishing five games with only one loss. Interestingly, all their victories were by a margin of more than one goal.
Injuries and Suspensions
The Penguins enter the new season at full strength, with only forward Matt Nieto remaining on the injured list after playing just 22 games last regular season.
Betting Trends of Note
- Last season, Pittsburgh averaged 32 shots per game.
The Penguins emerged as one of the most active teams in the league during the regular season, consistently applying significant pressure on their opponents, though this did not always yield results.
- The Penguins converted only 19% of their power play opportunities.
A key issue for the team last season was their poor performance on the power play, as they struggled to capitalize on having an extra player on the ice.
Current Form
Many viewed the Rangers as top contenders for the Stanley Cup last season, especially after their impressive regular season where they dominated opponents, securing the top spot in the Eastern Conference. Indeed, the team continued to perform well in the playoffs, confidently reaching the semifinals, where they faced the future champions, the Panthers, and lost a hard-fought series 2-4.
As expected, the Rangers were inactive in the offseason transfer market, as this outcome fully satisfied both the coaching staff and club management. The only notable addition is forward Reilly Smith, who will aim to fill the void left by Barclay Goodrow. Additionally, the Rangers performed well during preseason, suffering only two losses in six matches.
Injuries and Suspensions
The best forward, Artemii Panarin, suffered an upper body injury during a preseason game against the Islanders and may miss the upcoming match.
Notable Betting Trends
- The Rangers averaged 3.4 goals per game last season.
The Rangers were known not only for their strong defensive play but also for consistently leveraging their potent offense.
- The Rangers allowed an average of 2.8 goals per game.
One of the club's greatest strengths remains its reliable goaltending, particularly the standout performance of goalie Igor Shesterkin.
Trends
Bet Goal in every period - No
In three of the four head-to-head matches, neither team managed to score in every period
2.58Bet 1st Period: Total Over 1.5 Goals
In four of the six head-to-head matches, teams scored more than one goal in the first period
1.80Tip and bets
Pittsburgh is fortunate to kick off the regular season at home, where they often have a better chance of success compared to away games. However, it's important to note that in the upcoming match, the Penguins will face one of the league's strongest teams, which has remained unchanged and is expected to deliver solid performances, especially considering the Rangers' preseason games. Indeed, the Rangers clearly outmatch the home team in several aspects, so we recommend placing a bet in their favor.
Our prediction is a win for the Rangers at 2.17
Total Bet
Both teams favor an open attacking style and are not inclined to play defensively, resulting in a high number of goals being scored. It is unlikely that this will change, so we suggest betting on over the total.
Prediction – over 5.5 goals at 1.74
First Period Outcome Bet
In the first period, Pittsburgh has the potential to put up a strong fight, especially with the advantage of playing at home. Therefore, consider taking the odds and placing a bet on the double chance for the Penguins in this initial segment.
Prediction – Pittsburgh will not lose in the first period at 1.50
