The New York Rangers hit the ice tonight in Anaheim for a crucial Western Conference road clash against the Ducks, with puck drop scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET at Honda Center. This matchup serves as the second and final meeting between the teams this season, following Anaheim’s 4-1 victory at Madison Square Garden on December 15. The Rangers are looking to flip the script on the road, where they’ve shown more consistency this year. The Rangers enter the game at 21-22-6 with 48 points, sitting eighth in the Metropolitan Division and 16th in the Eastern Conference. They’ve struggled to find rhythm lately, posting a mixed record in recent outings but showing flashes of offensive potential. New York boasts a solid 16-9-2 mark away from home, compared to a tougher home slate, and they’ve earned points in several close contests, going 7-5-6 in one-goal games.
The Ducks, meanwhile, sit at 24-21-3 with 51 points, placing them sixth in the Pacific Division and ninth in the West. Anaheim has shown signs of life after a rough stretch, including a recent overtime win over the Los Angeles Kings (2-1). They’re strong at home (14-8-1) but continue to battle defensive inconsistencies, ranking near the bottom of the league in goals against per game.
New York snapped a skid with a convincing 6-3 road win over the Philadelphia Flyers on Saturday, highlighting their ability to generate offense on the road (averaging over 3 goals away). The team has been inconsistent overall, with defensive lapses allowing high shot volumes, but their power play (around 22-23%) remains a weapon. Anaheim is riding a mini-resurgence after a nine-game losing streak earlier in the season. Their recent victories, including the OT triumph against the Kings, show improved resilience, though they’ve averaged higher goals against in recent outings. The Ducks lead the NHL in penalties taken, which could play into New York’s hands if special teams become a factor.
Key Players and Matchups
For the Rangers, keep an eye on Artemi Panarin, who continues to lead the team in points with strong playmaking, and Mika Zibanejad, their top goal scorer. Spencer Martin is expected to start. Anaheim relies heavily on Troy Terry for setup plays and secondary scoring threats like Cutter Gauthier, who had a multi-goal performance in the first meeting. Goaltender Lukas Dostal is projected between the pipes, but the Ducks’ defense has been vulnerable, allowing plenty of high-danger chances.
- Moneyline: Ducks favored at -135, Rangers at +114/+120 (depending on book).
- Puck Line: Ducks -1.5 (+164), Rangers +1.5 (-198).
- Total: 6.5 goals (Over -105, Under -115). Trends point toward a potential shootout, with both teams involved in games hitting the over frequently lately. Anaheim’s penalty-prone style (highest in penalties per game) could feed New York’s power play, while the Rangers’ road offense might exploit gaps.
What to Watch For
This game pits the Rangers‘ road resilience and goaltending advantage against the Ducks’ home-ice energy and desperation to build momentum. Discipline will be huge—Anaheim’s high penalty count could swing momentum if New York capitalizes. Expect a competitive, potentially high-event contest as both clubs fight for crucial points in the playoff race.
Prediction:
The Rangers’ special teams give them the nod in a close one. Look for New York to avenge the earlier loss with a narrow victory. Projected score: Rangers 4, Ducks 3. Tune in on ESPN+, MSG Network, Victory+ Sports Network, or KCOP-13. Let’s go Rangers!
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