The Washington Capitals are very happy to have their captain Alex Ovechkin back in the lineup again.
Ovechkin has played in their last four games and the Russian superstar has picked up right where he left off ahead of Saturday's matinee against the New York Rangers.
Find out why my Capitals vs. Rangers predictions expect the home team to get another dub on home ice. Read more in my NHL picks for Saturday, January 4.
Rangers vs Capitals prediction
My best bet
Capitals to win in regulation (-105 at FanDuel)
My analysis
The Washington Capitals have been one of the best teams in the entire NHL, entering Saturday boasting a record of 25-10-3.
The Capitals have been strong in almost every facet of the game. They score goals, play strong defense, and they have gotten timely saves. Washington is the second-highest-scoring team in the NHL, averaging 3.63 goals per game, and Alex Ovechkin & Co. are generating the fourth-most high-danger chances per game at even strength (11.84).
On the flip side, the New York Rangers don't defend well by any means, allowing the second-most high-danger chances against per 60 at 5-on-5 (12.96).
Most signs point toward the Capitals starting netminder Logan Thompson, who has been spectacular in goal this season. Thompson has earned a record of 15-2-2 with a .918 SV% and a 2.30 GAA, including a +15.3 goals saved above expected.
Washington has been one of the best home-ice teams in the league this season, sporting a record of 12-4-3 in its own barn. With one of the worst defensive teams in the league going up against one of the best offensive units, the Caps are the pick.
Rangers vs Capitals same-game parlay (SGP)
Capitals to win in regulation
Under 6.5
Dylan Strome 2+ shots on goal
The Rangers are averaging less than three goals per game, and their power play is only converting at a 17.8% clip.
Dylan Strome is generating 1.78 shots on goal per game and has hit this number in two of his last four contests. You have to think he will get more opportunities to shoot against a Rangers team that allows the third-most shots on goal per game. Strome is in the midst of a breakout season with 41 points, and I like him to keep it rolling against New York.
Learn how to bet a same-game parlay with these helpful tips and strategies.
Rangers vs Capitals odds
Rangers vs Capitals live odds
Rangers vs Capitals opening odds
- Puck line: New York -1.5 (-146) | Washington +1.5 (-178)
- Moneyline: New York -170 | Washington +140
- Over/Under: Over 6.5 (+110) | Under 6.5 (-134)
Rangers vs Capitals trend
Washington has won the last three straight regular-season meetings at home against New York. Find more NHL betting trends for Rangers vs. Capitals.
How to watch Rangers vs Capitals
| Location: | Capital One Arena, Washington, D.C. |
| Date: | Saturday, 1-4-2025 |
| Puck drop: | 12:00 p.m. ET |
| TV: | ABC |
Rangers vs Capitals latest injuries
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