San Jose Sharks (6-16-2) vs. New York Rangers (17-4-1)
San Jose Sharks vs. New York Rangers 12/3/23 – In an upcoming NHL regular-season game, the San Jose Sharks, struggling with a 6-16-2 record, are set to face the formidable New York Rangers, boasting an impressive 17-4-1 standing, on Sunday. This matchup at the iconic Madison Square Garden presents a classic underdog versus powerhouse scenario. With the Sharks desperately seeking to turn their fortunes around and the Rangers looking to maintain their dominance, this game draws special attention for free sports selections.
The Sharks offense has been dismal this season, ranked 30th in the league at just 2.38 goals per game. Their leading scorer is Tomas Hertl with 17 points, but no one else on the team has more than 10. Going up against the Rangers’ stout defense and red-hot goalie Igor Shesterkin will make it very difficult for the Sharks to generate any offense in this matchup.
Meanwhile, the Rangers have one of the most potent attacks in the NHL, led by the duo of Artemi Panarin and Chris Kreider who have combined for 52 points already. Their speed and skill should overwhelm the Sharks defense, especially if Mackenzie Blackwood gets the start in net for San Jose – he has an .903 save percentage on the year. The Rangers should pepper him with shots.
San Jose Sharks vs. New York Rangers 12/3/23 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, December 3, 2023 at 6:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Madison Square Garden |
| TV: | NHL |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Mackenzie Blackwood vs. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin
Mackenzie Blackwood has faced a barrage of shots and goals against this season behind the hapless Sharks defense. In 17 appearances, he has a lackluster 3.56 goals against average along with a .903 save percentage. Blackwood has faced over 30 shots per start and has allowed three or more goals in 14 of his 17 games played. Going up against the second-highest scoring offense in the NHL will be a nightmare matchup for the struggling netminder. The Rangers move the puck well and create high danger chances with ease. They also pour on shots from all angles, so expect Blackwood to be under siege all night at Madison Square Garden. If his recent play is any indication, this has all the makings of another short outing for Blackwood.
At the other end, Rangers stalwart Igor Shesterkin has been phenomenal as expected. Through 14 starts, Shesterkin has delivered a .916 save percentage and 2.54 GAA while facing the seventh-most shots against in the league. He has held opponents to two goals or fewer in 10 of 14 starts, including a shutout. Shesterkin has a significant advantage in this goaltender duel. The Sharks have the second-lowest scoring offense that struggles to put together sustained pressure. While the Rangers pepper opposing goalies with quality chances, the Sharks lack weapons up front to threaten Shesterkin often.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: New York Rangers -435, Total Odds: 6
The Rangers are heavily favored playing at home against the ice-cold Sharks. The -435 moneyline indicates the Rangers have an 81% implied win probability. The total is set at just 6 goals, so bookmakers are expecting New York’s defense and goaltending to control the pace of play. A lower-scoring grind-it-out type game favors the Rangers.
San Jose Sharks Betting Trends
The Sharks are 1-13 straight up on the road this season and have lost six straight games overall. When playing on the road against the Rangers, the under has hit in five of their last five meetings. San Jose has also gone under in four of their last six contests against Metropolitan Division opponents.
New York Rangers Betting Trends
The Rangers are 7-2 at home this season and have won five of their last six overall. In their past five home games against the Sharks, New York is 4-1 straight up and the under has hit all five times. The Rangers have gone under in four of their last six matchups with Pacific Division foes.
San Jose Sharks vs. New York Rangers 12/3/23 Betting Picks
The analysis points to a clear advantage for the New York Rangers. Their offensive depth, coupled with Shesterkin’s goaltending, gives them an edge over the Sharks. However, the Sharks might play with a sense of urgency, which could lead to surprising moments.
In terms of premium expert selections, the Rangers are the safer bet, but the Sharks offer value as a high-risk, high-reward pick, especially in prop bets. The total points are likely to lean towards the UNDER, given the Rangers’ defensive prowess and the Sharks’ offensive struggles.
Free Pick and Prediction: New York Rangers 4, San Jose Sharks 1.