Washington Capitals vs
New York RangersPredictions & Preview

New York Rangers Dominate Washington Capitals in Game 1 of Playoffs, Look to Extend Series Lead in Game 2

The playoffs are in full swing as the eighth-seeded team faces off against the top-seeded team in Game 2 of their best-of-seven series. The New York Rangers currently hold a 1-0 series lead after a 4-1 victory in Game 1. Throughout their postseason history, the Rangers have a slight advantage over their opponent, with a 5-4 series record. New York has won the last three playoff series against this team, including a seven-game series in 2015. The Rangers are the betting favorite for Game 2, with the current line set at New York -275.

Betting Odds

• Moneyline: Capitals +227 | Rangers -275
• Spread: Capitals +1.5 (-122) | Rangers -1.5 (+102)
• Total: Over/Under 5.5 (-110)
• Based on the moneyline, the implied probability that New York will win straight-up is 73%.

Washington vs New York Stats

Washington Capitals

Despite a strong end to the regular season, the Washington Capitals struggled in the opening game of their playoff series against the Rangers. They were outscored, outshot, and outplayed physically, resulting in a 4-1 loss. The Capitals need to regroup and improve their offensive opportunities to avoid falling into a 2-0 series hole. Their power ranking is 26, with a ranking of 28 in offense and 17 in defense. They will need to improve their performance to have a chance at success in the postseason.

New York Rangers Analysis

The New York Rangers secured a 1-0 lead in the series against Washington after winning the opening game. They are looking to continue their momentum and increase their lead to 2-0 before heading on the road for the next two games. New York dominated the second period offensively and defensively, utilizing production from their bottom six forwards to ease pressure off their top line. The Rangers held a 31-21 edge in shots on goal and goalie Igor Shesterkin made 20 saves in the victory. New York has a power ranking of 4 and ranks #6 in offense, scoring an average of 3.44 goals per game, and #7 in defense, giving up an average of 2.79 goals per game. Washington went 2-1-0 in their last 3 matchups against New York. If you're interested in making some bets, check out our free NHL picks!

New York Rangers Dominate Washington Team in Opening Playoff Game

In the opening game of the series, the Washington team had to work diligently to secure their spot in the postseason up to the final game of the regular season. On the other hand, the Rangers were already guaranteed a spot and focused on maintaining their position as leaders of the Metropolitan Division. As anticipated, the Rangers dominated the majority of the game and secured a victory. Washington, who barely made it into the postseason, appeared fatigued. The superior New York team demonstrated their strength by securing a 2-0 series advantage with a strong performance at home.

Sources: [ 4 ] [ 6 ]