Washington Capitals (40-31-11) vs. New York Rangers (55-23-4)
Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers 4/21/24 – The NHL Stanley Cup Playoffs are heating up with a crucial showdown as the Washington Capitals face off against the New York Rangers on Sunday, April 21, 2024. Held at the iconic Madison Square Garden, this matchup promises intense hockey action. The Capitals, having secured a decent 40-31-11 record, are considered underdogs against the formidable Rangers, who boast an impressive 55-23-4 record. Sports handicapper top reviews indicate that this game will be pivotal in the playoffs trajectory for both teams.
The Capitals’ attack, spearheaded by Dylan Strome and a powerful Alex Ovechkin, has proven to be top-notch. Which Strome is sitting at 67 points, along with Ovechkin’s 65, shows the scoring ability of the team. Nonetheless, this influence will be challenged against the Rangers’ mighty defense. The Capitals will need to utilize their power plays which might be the key weapon for Ovechkin with his 13 power play goals and breaking through the Rangers’ defense.
While Artemi Panarin is an engine of the Rangers’ offense with 120 points, this makes him a top-level player in the league. Together with Chris Kreider and Vincent Trocheck, they are constantly working on the Rangers’ offensive stats. The team’s effectiveness in converting plays into goals will be a major factor while they go up against Capitals goaltender Charlie Lindgren who has been outstanding in the net.
Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers 4/21/24 Game Info
| When: | Sunday, April 21, 2024 at 3:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Madison Square Garden |
| TV: | ESPN |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Charlie Lindgren vs. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin
Charlie Lindgren will be vital for the Caps as they had the season where he had a .911 save percentage throughout 50 games. Leveraging his skills for handling pressure-packed circumstances, he will clash against the Rangers’ decisive approach, i.e. the aggressive shooting strategy. Lindgren’s performance in the shootouts and in the overall play will decide the fate whether the Capitals score should be dominated or not.
By contrast, Igor Shesterkin of the Rangers boasts a .913 save percentage, and is particularly strong in shoot-outs – also a tough nut for the Capitals forwards to crack. His solid work this season has enabled the Rangers to have the courage to play with aggression knowing that they have a strong backline.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: New York Rangers -240, Total Odds: 5.5
The current betting odds favor the Rangers heavily with a -240 moneyline, reflecting their superior season performance. The over/under set at 5.5 with the Capitals potentially playing a more defensive game to counter the Rangers’ offensive might.
Washington Capitals Betting Trends
The Capitals have witnessed the total going OVER in their last 5 games suggesting a pattern of high-scoring events. Even with being the underdog team, they have managed well against the spread, becoming 4-1 in their last 5 games. Their dismal road performance against the spread (19-22) may be a significant factor in this encounter.
New York Rangers Betting Trends
The Rangers have been worse against the spread this season going 2-3 in their last 5 games but their home record at 22-18 is decent. On three occasions in their last five games, the total went OVER, indicating that their offensive tactics might lead to more over scores.
Washington Capitals vs. New York Rangers 4/21/2024 Betting Picks
Considering the trend and numbers, it is definitely going to be a high-scoring game, exceeding the over, with the Rangers might get the benefit of their home support and firepower which will be enough to see them through. Nevertheless, Capitals’ recent form, which indicates that they may cover particularly with the +1.5 line.
The Rangers are the safer pick for the moneyline, but the best value might lie in backing the Capitals with the puck line. Consider prop bets on Ovechkin and Panarin for goal scoring, given their critical roles in their respective teams. For those looking for no-cost Stanley Cup Playoff selections, keep an eye on the changing odds close to game time for potential shifts in the betting landscape.
Free Pick and Prediction: New York Rangers 4, Washington Capitals 3.