Tuesday night in the NHL is an action-packed 16-game schedule, including an intra-conference battle between the New York Rangers and Vancouver Canucks. This is the first of two meetings this season.

Both teams are full of potential and numerous stars on each roster, but a combined record of 8-10-2 shows that neither has taken charge just yet. Maybe this game could be used to set the tone going forward. To get you set for the action, here is our Rangers vs. Canucks preview and prediction.

This game is hovering around a pick’em on the NHL odds, with the total set at 5.5.

Rangers vs. Canucks NHL Betting Odds

Over the past three seasons, the New York Rangers have beaten the Vancouver Canucks in five of six matches. This could reflect Vancouver’s current underdog status in this game.

Against the spread, both the Rangers and Canucks are an even 5-5. New York has cashed the Over just four times in their 10 games this season, while Vancouver has a 6-3-1 mark to the Over. Additionally, seven of the last 10 meetings between these squads went over the total.

New York Rangers

The New York Rangers have had an inconsistent start to the season. They have been streaky, but a recent stretch of play with a 0-2-1 record has been their worst. They have given up 14 goals in that span and have just looked lost out there. This franchise is typically considered one of the usual playoff threats, but recently, that has not been the case. However, their current goal is to return to that form with their key players still in place.

You can never overlook this Rangers team with the likes of Artemi Panarin, Igor Shesterkin, and J.T. Miller, but you’d have to think some urgency is creeping in as they are at the bottom of the Metropolitan Division.

Vancouver Canucks

After the 2024-25 season was filled with drama, injuries, and poor performances throughout, the Canucks (5-5-0) have kicked off the fresh season in a solid way. A 4-2-0 start quickly turned to a 4-5-0 start, but they have since returned to the win column in a 4-3 win over the Edmonton Oilers. They will now look to start a new streak and build their way back up the Pacific Division.

Key forwards Elias Pettersson (eight points in 10 games) and Brock Boeser (four goals in eight games) look strong, which will be a major factor in this season’s success. Goaltender Thatcher Demko’s health will also be key, and in six appearances this season, he has looked incredible with a 2.36 goals against average and a .922 save percentage.

NHL Prediction: Who Will Win Rangers vs. Canucks?

Both teams need a win with middling records, but I expect Vancouver to secure the victory. New York is in shambles lately, with some tough losses to far weaker teams than Vancouver. Until New York can show they are a consistent threat, it is hard to think that will change in this game. I predict Vancouver to win by a 4-1 scoreline.

RANGERS

Away

1

CANUCKS

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