Rangers vs Capitals: NHL Showdown Preview, Odds, and Predictions for October 29

The New York Rangers and the Washington Capitals are set to clash in a highly anticipated Metropolitan Division matchup on Tuesday, October 29, 2024, at Capital One Arena in Washington, D.C. The game, scheduled to start at 7:30 p.m. ET, will be broadcast nationally on ESPN.

The Rangers, with a strong 6-1-1 record, have been one of the top offensive teams in the NHL this season. They are averaging 4.25 goals per game, the third-highest in the league, and have a potent power play converting at a 25% rate.

Artemi Panarin has been a key contributor for the Rangers, registering a point in all eight games this season with six goals and nine assists. The team’s defense has also been solid, allowing just 2.00 goals per game, tied for the second-best in the league. Goalie Igor Shesterkin has been stellar, with a 2.16 GAA and a .926 save percentage.

The Washington Capitals, with a 5-2-0 record, have had a solid start to the season but face challenges, particularly with their power play. The Capitals have the third-worst power play in the NHL, converting only once in their last 20 attempts and failing to score a power-play goal in five consecutive games.

The Capitals’ lineup features notable players such as Alex Ovechkin, Dylan Strome, and Tom Wilson. However, they are dealing with injuries, including defenseman Matt Roy who was placed on injured reserve, and forward Sonny Milano, who is scratched for the game.

In terms of betting odds, the Rangers are favored with a moneyline set at -150, while the Capitals are at +130. The over/under is set at 6.0 goals, with the over at -105 and the under at -115.

Historically, the Rangers have had the upper hand in recent matchups, winning 7 of the last 8 games against the Capitals, including a 4-game sweep in last year’s first-round playoff series.