Blackhawks vs. Rangers prediction, tips and odds for today’s NHL game

The New York Rangers and Chicago Blackhawks have both struggled recently. They have each lost seven of their last nine games, and while that would have been expected for the Blackhawks, no one would have guessed it for the Rangers.

It would be a bit dramatic to call this a must-win game for the Blueshirts, but my Blackhawks vs. Rangers predictions are that all the pressure will be on them tonight as they try to compete in the second leg of a back-to-back to get back on your feet – back.

You can’t fully rely on either team’s offense on Monday, December 9th, and that’s why I’m looking at the minors for my NHL picks.

Blackhawks vs Rangers Prediction

My best choice
Under 5.5 (+114 on FanDuel)

My analysis

Igor Shesterkin hasn’t been good in his last nine starts, that’s no secret. He has posted a record of 3-6-0 with a .897 save percentage and a 3.39 goals-against average over that span.

Despite the poor record and numbers, there were some distractions hanging over him that can sometimes affect the way someone plays. Now that his contract is signed and his wife has given birth to a healthy baby girl, Shesterkin has a lot of weight lifted off his shoulders. We should see the real Shesterkin in goal tonight.

It also helps that the New York Rangers’ opponent tonight is the struggling Chicago Blackhawks, who have scored two goals or fewer in four of their last five games.

The Blackhawks have averaged the second-fewest goals per game in the NHL, averaging 2.41 per night. Playing at even strength is the most difficult for this team because the opponent controls the game and therefore it is difficult for them to generate attacks. Chicago has an 8.13 high threat chance at 5-on-5 per 60 minutes.

Connor Bedard is also experiencing what can be described as a “sophomore slump,” with just five goals in 27 games this season.

The Rangers will emphasize tight checking tonight after allowing seven goals against the Seattle Kraken yesterday afternoon. They were far too relaxed defensively and that cost them.

This has all the makings of a big game from Shesterkin.

Blackhawks vs. Rangers – Match Game Parlay (SGP)

Below 5.5

Rangers -1.5

Blackhawks team overall score under 2.5

The Rangers have found their offensive stride in the last two games and want to take the positives from that into today’s game against the Blackhawks.

Mika Zibanejad, who struggled early in the season, is now on a four-game points streak. Vincent Trocheck and Artemi Panarin each have two goals and three assists in the last two games. The Rangers’ big guns needed to get going, and these guys should be able to carry them tonight as Shesterkin closes the door.

The Blackhawks have scored fewer than three goals in seven of their last 10 and each of their last three games. Chicago’s offensive woes are alarming, and if there’s one team the Rangers can turn things around defensively, it’s this team.

But this game is all about Shesterkin having a clear head. Shesterkin’s career numbers against the Blackhawks are outstanding. He is 4-0-0 with a 1.98 goals against average and a .935 save percentage.

Learn how to place a bet in the same game with these helpful tips and strategies.

Blackhawks vs Rangers odds

Blackhawks vs Rangers live odds

Blackhawks vs. Rangers opening odds

• Puck line: Chicago +1.5 (-130) | New York -1.5 (+106)
• Money line:Chicago +205 | New York -255
• Over/Under: Over 5.5 (-140) | Under 5.5 (+114)

Blackhawks vs Rangers trend

The Blackhawks have hit the under in 47 of their last 84 games (+15.10 units / 17% ROI). Find more NHL betting trends for Blackhawks vs. Rangers.

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