NHL Betting Lines & Pick on Islanders at Rangers

On Thursday night, the New York Islanders head across town to take on the New York Rangers in a Metropolitan Division showdown. The Islanders (44-26-9, 97 points) are in fourth place in the division, just behind the Rangers (45-26-9, 99 points). The Rangers beat the Tampa Bay Lightning, 3-2, on Tuesday, while the Islanders won in Washington on Tuesday, knocking off the Capitals 4-3 in overtime. Be sure to look out for more odds and lines for NHL by clicking here.

WE’RE IN!

Yes! Yes! Yes! To the Stanley Cup Playoffs! #Isles pic.twitter.com/0oOcoQHykj — New York Islanders (@NYIslanders) April 6, 2016

NHL Betting Lines & Pick on Islanders at Rangers & TV Info

When: Thursday, April 7, 2016, 7:00pm ET Where: Madison Square Garden, New York City TV: MSG, MS+2 Radio: Islanders / Rangers Live Stream: NHL.tv NHL Odds: TBA

Why Should You Bet on the Rangers?

The Rangers have a slightly stronger offense than the Islanders this year — at least if you look at the whole season. With the addition of Eric Staal, you have to look at the Rangers as a slightly more powerful unit when it comes to putting pucks in the net. If the Rangers commit to strong play on the blue line, then they should be able to hold off the Islanders, as they will get some opportunities against an Islander defense that tends to give up goals at the wrong time.

Why Should You Put Your Money on Islanders?

The Rangers have not been doing a good job in the first period (although their win over Tampa Bay was an exception), as their defense has been hanging goalie Henrik Lundqvist out to dry, leading to early deficits (and losses). If the Islanders can get out to a lead, they have the defensive strength to limit the chances for the Blueshirts.

Expert Betting Pick and Final Score Prediction

I like the Rangers to come home and take care of business against an Islanders team looking to send the Rangers to a wild card position. I’m predicting a 3-2 Blueshirt win.