Anaheim Ducks vs. New York Rangers – As the NHL regular season progresses, the Anaheim Ducks (10-17-0) prepare to face off against the New York Rangers (19-7-1) in a highly anticipated matchup on Friday, December 15, 2023. This game, pivotal for both teams’ standings, promises to be a highlight for NHL daily picks. Set in the iconic Madison Square Garden at 7:00 PM ET and broadcasted on ESPN+, this clash will be a test of strategy, skill, and endurance.
Anaheim Ducks vs. New York Rangers
Date & Time: Friday, December 15, 2023, at 7:00 PM ET
Location: Madison Square Garden
TV: ESPN+
Anaheim Ducks vs. New York Rangers Betting Odds
| Team | Moneyline | Puckline | Total |
| Ducks | TBD | TBD | TBD |
| Islanders | TBD | TBD | TBD |
Anaheim Ducks Analysis
The Ducks offense has shown signs of life recently, scoring 3 or more goals in 4 of their last 5 contests. Winger Frank Vatrano leads Anaheim with 14 goals while center Mason McTavish has chipped in 10 goals and 11 assists. Overall the Ducks are averaging 2.9 goals per game but their power play has converted at just a 12.2% rate. Against New York’s 10th ranked penalty kill unit, Anaheim will need to capitalize on any man advantage opportunities.
In goal, John Gibson has faced a heavy workload this year. His .904 save percentage is well below his career rate and Gibson has allowed 3 or more goals in half of his 20 starts. Facing an explosive Rangers offense, Gibson will need to be at his best to give Anaheim a chance. The Ducks defense has struggled all season, allowing the 5th most shots per game.
Digging deeper, Anaheim’s offense relies heavily on the top line of Vatrano, McTavish and center Ryan Strome. Outside of that trio, the Ducks lack secondary scoring with just 7 players tallying 5+ goals on the year. If New York can shut down Anaheim’s first line, the Ducks could struggle to generate offense. Defensively, Anaheim allows 3.9 goals against per contest, 4th worst in the NHL. Gibson has often been left out to dry this season behind a porous Ducks defense.
New York Rangers Analysis
The Rangers sport one of the most dynamic attacks in the league, led by left winger Artemi Panarin. Panarin leads New York with 16 goals and 23 assists while center Mika Zibanejad has contributed 8 goals and 15 helpers. As a team the Rangers average 3.7 goals per game, 3rd best in the NHL. Their power play clicks at a 25.4% rate, presenting a major challenge for Anaheim’s penalty kill.
In net, Vezina Trophy winner Igor Shesterkin has been solid with a .902 save percentage through 17 starts. Shesterkin should have the edge over Gibson in goal. On defense, New York allows just 28.4 shots against per contest, 5th fewest in the league. Their penalty killing unit ranks 10th best as well. The Rangers defense matches up strongly against the Ducks offense.
Looking closer, New York features impressive scoring depth with 7 players notching 20+ points so far. Their bottom two lines can provide secondary scoring behind the Panarin and Zibanejad duo. Defensively, the Rangers excel at limiting quality chances and keeping shot totals down. With Shesterkin providing steady goaltending as well, New York has one of the most well-rounded defensive corps in the NHL. That spells trouble for an Anaheim offense that struggles to generate shots on net.
Anaheim Ducks vs. New York Rangers Against the Spread
The Ducks are 4-1 against the spread (ATS) over their last 5 contests and 8-5 ATS on the road this year. The totals have gone OVER in 2 of Anaheim’s previous 5 matchups. For the Rangers, they are just 2-3 ATS across their last 5 games but sport an 8-7 road ATS record this season. The totals have gone OVER in 1 of New York’s past 5 contests.
Anaheim Ducks vs. New York Rangers Free Pick
Based on trends, team stats, and key players, here are the picks:
Moneyline: New York Rangers. The Rangers’ stronger overall performance and home advantage tilt the scales in their favor.
Spread: Anaheim Ducks. Given their recent success against the spread and resilience in away games, the Ducks are a smart pick here.
Total: OVER. Both teams have trends indicating high-scoring games, making OVER a compelling choice.
Predicted Score:New York Rangers 4, Anaheim Ducks 3
In conclusion, while the Ducks pose a formidable challenge, the Rangers’ offensive edge and defensive solidity make them the safer bet. When considering bets, it’s important to look at the best betting sites in Canada for updated odds and insights, ensuring informed and strategic betting decisions.
