Apr 27, 2023; Newark, New Jersey, USA; New York Rangers right wing Kaapo Kakko (24) punches New Jersey Devils defenseman Damon Severson (28) during the first period in game five of the first round of the 2023 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Prudential Center. Mandatory Credit: Ed Mulholland-USA TODAY Sports
Braves could solve Marcell Ozuna problem with positional overload
The first round of the NHL Playoffs will fittingly end with Game 7 of the Battle of the Hudson.
The New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils will face-off at the Prudential Center with a berth in Round 2 on the line. After falling to 0-2 in the first round, the Devils won three straight before the Rangers won Game 6 to force a Game 7 tonight.
Let’s take a look at the odds for tonight’s series finale and then I’ll give you my best bet.
Rangers vs. Devils odds, puck line, and total
Rangers vs. Devils prediction and pick
The Devils have largely dominated the Rangers so far this series, especially during 5-on-5 play. In fact, they have the highest CORSI%, which measures all types of shot attempts for and against, amongst the 16 postseason teams in the opening round.
They also have the second highest expected goals percentage at 54.06%.
Where the Rangers have the advantage is experience. This group of players has been here before and will be better prepped to win a high stakes Game 7 matchup. They also have been much better on the powerplay than the Devils, which could prove huge tonight.
Still, I’m going to trust the metrics and back the Devils. They’re averaging over five more high-danger scoring chances per game and if they can find a way to sneak a few past Igor Shesterkin, they’re going to be in good position to advance to the second round of the NHL Playoffs.
Â
Game odds refresh periodically and are subject to change.
