New York Rangers vs Colorado Avalanche Picks and Predictions January 26th 2025

New York Rangers vs Colorado Avalanche January 26th 2025

Making on a bet on this NHL game featuring the Avalanche versus the Rangers? The puck drops at 1:00 ET, and you can watch it all unfold on ESPN+. The game will be played at Madison Square Garden in New York, NY. This non-conference matchup has an over/under of 5.5 goals, and the Rangers are favored by -1.5 against the Avalanche.

Colorado vs. New York Key Information

• Teams: Avalanche at Rangers
• Where: Madison Square Garden New York
• Date: Sunday, January 26th
• Betting Odds NYR -115 | COL -104 O/U 5.5

The Avalanche Can Win If…

After a 5-2 loss to the Predators, the Avalanche’s record now stands at 28-20-2. Colorado was the underdog on the puck line, and the total for the game was set at 6.5 goals, with the combined score reaching 7.

The Avalanche took the lead in the second period, but the Predators responded with five straight goals. Cale Makar and Nathan MacKinnon each found the net for Colorado.

In their 5-2 loss to Nashville, Colorado’s offense managed 30 shots on goal but only found the net twice. Cale Makar opened the scoring with his 5th goal of the season on a power play, while Nathan MacKinnon added his 6th goal late in the third period.

MacKinnon also picked up his 14th assist on Makar’s goal, and Makar earned his 16th assist on MacKinnon’s goal. The Avalanche recorded 23 giveaways in the game.

Defensively, the Avalanche gave up five goals, including two empty-netters. Justus Annunen made 21 saves with a save percentage of 87.5%. After taking a 1-0 lead, Colorado allowed three straight goals, two of which came on the power play, and another two late in the 3rd period.

• Colorado has put together a record of 0-3 in their last three games (regular season). Their record against the puck line in this stretch is 0-3 to go along with an over-under mark of 0-3.
• Through their last ten regular season contests, Colorado has a record of 4-6. In these matchups, they ended with an puck line record of 3-7 and an over-under mark of 3-7.

The Rangers Can Win If…

The Rangers improved to 24-20-4 with a 5-2 win over the Islanders. Entering the game as -1.5 goal favorites, New York covered the puck line with ease. The total was set at 6 goals, and the combined 7 goals surpassed that mark.

Four different players contributed to the Rangers’ scoring, with Artemi Panarin leading the way with two goals. The Rangers built a 2-0 lead before the Islanders got on the board, and they sealed the win with two unanswered goals in the third period.

Artemi Panarin led the way for the Rangers with two goals, including his 9th of the season on an empty net and his 8th on a power play. Chris Kreider opened the scoring with his 8th goal, coming on a shorthanded play. Vincent Trocheck added his 4th goal of the season, while Adam Edstrom netted his 1st.

Mika Zibanejad contributed with three assists, bringing his total to 8 for the season. The Rangers fired 40 shots on goal and had 14 giveaways.

Igor Shesterkin made 35 saves with a 94.6% save percentage, helping the Rangers secure a 5-2 win over the Islanders. Defensively, the Rangers finished with 10 takeaways and 19 hits. After allowing a late goal in the 2nd period, they shut out the Islanders in the 3rd.

• Through their last three games, the Rangers have a record of 2-1. In terms of betting, the team went 2-1 puck line in these matchups. Their over/under record in these matchups is 2-1.
• Across New York’s last ten regular season games, their record sits at 7-3. In these contests, the team went just 8-2 against the spread, while going 5-5 on the over-under.

The Lean

For a moneyline pick, I’m taking the Rangers to pick up on a win over the Avalanche at home. With the moneyline sitting at -115, I’ll be locking in a bet on the Rangers straight-up.

For a puck line prediction, our preference is the Rangers to secure a win and cover. Anticipate the Rangers to win this one by multiple goals over the Avalanche.

If you’re looking at the over/under line set at 5.5 goals, our prediction is that this game will exceed that mark, and we strongly advise placing a bet on the over.

Rangers Riding Momentum into Critical Clash

The New York Rangers (25-13-7) enter Sunday’s matchup against the Colorado Avalanche with a wave of confidence. After a rough stretch earlier this season, the Rangers are unbeaten in regulation in their past 10 games, going 7-0-3. The streak has vaulted them into a playoff position as they continue to fight for an Eastern Conference wild-card spot.

New York’s resurgence has been fueled by balanced scoring and solid defensive contributions. In their latest 6-1 thrashing of the Philadelphia Flyers on Thursday, Rangers defensemen combined for three goals and five assists. K’Andre Miller and Adam Fox each posted a goal and an assist, while Braden Schneider also found the back of the net. The performance marked the first time since 2019 that all six Rangers defensemen recorded at least one point in a game.

“We know the team we have and didn’t forget how to play hockey,” Rangers forward Filip Chytil said. “Sometimes you have stretches like this in a season. It’s about how the team responds. For the last month, we’ve responded in a good way.”

The Rangers have also been buoyed by strong goaltending from Igor Shesterkin, who has returned to his Vezina-caliber form. The Rangers hope to extend their streak with upcoming home games against the Avalanche and Hurricanes, both of whom were involved in a blockbuster trade this past week.

Coloraders’ Depth Scoring vs. Avalanche Defense

The Rangers’ ability to get production from all lines, as well as their defense, has been a major factor in their recent success. Colorado’s defense will need to step up to limit New York’s offensive depth.

2. Shesterkin vs. Avalanche Firepower

Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin has been in stellar form, and he’ll need to be sharp against a Colorado team that still boasts MacKinnon and other offensive weapons. The Avalanche will be eager to test Shesterkin early and often.

3. Necas’ Integration

Martin Necas has the skills to make an immediate impact for the Avalanche, but his chemistry with MacKinnon and Drouin will be under the microscope. If he finds his groove quickly, Colorado’s top line could cause problems for the Rangers.

Recent History

The Avalanche edged the Rangers 3-2 in overtime in their first meeting of the season on Jan. 14. Artturi Lehkonen tied the game late in regulation before Devon Toews scored the game-winner in OT. The Rangers will look to flip the script on their home ice.

Prediction

Both teams have plenty of motivation heading into Sunday’s clash. The Rangers are looking to extend their point streak and solidify their playoff position, while the Avalanche are adjusting to a significant roster change and trying to bounce back from a tough loss in Boston.

The game is likely to come down to goaltending and special teams, areas where the Rangers have an edge. Expect a tightly contested affair with New York coming out on top.

Final Score Prediction: Rangers 4, Avalanche 3

Dive into a Detailed Analysis of the NHL Conferences with Updated Odds and Expert Predictions

Conclusion

The Rangers and Avalanche meet under intriguing circumstances, with New York riding a hot streak and Colorado adjusting to life without Mikko Rantanen. With playoff implications for both teams, this Sunday showdown promises high-stakes, must-watch hockey. Will the Rangers extend their streak, or will the Avalanche find their footing with their new-look roster? Stay tuned.