New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins Picks and Predictions October 7th 2025

New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins – NHL Betting Preview

The New York Rangers begin their long climb back to playoff contention with a new voice behind the bench — former Penguins coach Mike Sullivan. The Rangers missed the postseason last year despite returning most of their Presidents’ Trophy core, and now they face the Pittsburgh Penguins to open the season.

Pittsburgh starts a new era under coach Dan Muse, ending Mike Sullivan’s ten-year run. Sidney Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, and Kris Letang remain the franchise anchors, but a youth movement and a few veteran additions aim to reignite their playoff hopes.

New York Rangers can win if

The Rangers rediscover their offensive chemistry early. New captain J.T. Miller, acquired from Vancouver, immediately became a leadership figure after scoring 35 points in 32 games last season. He’ll skate alongside Mika Zibanejad and Artemi Panarin, two stars looking to bounce back from underwhelming point totals.

New York’s power play ranked among the top units in the East, and if Igor Shesterkin can control second chances, they’ll have a strong edge. The Rangers have gone 10-4-1 against the Penguins since 2021 and remain one of the better home-opening teams in the NHL.

A solid debut from Sullivan, who knows Pittsburgh’s systems intimately, could push New York toward an early statement win.

Pittsburgh Penguins can win if

The Penguins’ veteran core sets the tone and Tristan Jarry regains form after a .893 save percentage last season. Crosby continues to defy time with three straight 90-point years, but Malkin must rebound from his 50-point campaign to give Pittsburgh offensive balance.

The addition of Mathew Dumba should help stabilize the blue line, while newcomers Anthony Mantha and Noel Acciari add depth to the middle six. Ville Koivunen, a promising young winger, might open the season on Crosby’s line, bringing energy to an offense that sometimes struggled with pace.

If Pittsburgh wins the special-teams battle and limits turnovers in the neutral zone, they have a realistic chance to steal the opener.

Line Movement and Odds

Opening: Rangers -135 / Penguins +115
Current: Rangers -140 / Penguins +120
Puck Line: Rangers -1.5 (+180) / Penguins +1.5 (-215)
Total: 6.5 goals (Over -105 / Under -115)

The Rangers opened as home favorites, with line movement leaning toward New York. Sharp money favors the under, expecting both goaltenders to settle early. Check full updates on the NHL odds page.

Matchup Breakdown

New York’s offseason overhaul centered on accountability and structure. With Sullivan implementing a two-way system, the Rangers should improve defensively while maintaining transition speed. Miller’s addition brings grit and playmaking to a top six that can match up well against anyone in the East.

Pittsburgh enters the season with experience but questions in goal and defense. Jarry’s ability to bounce back from last year’s struggles will dictate their ceiling. The Penguins’ power play still ranks top ten, anchored by Crosby and Letang, but their penalty kill finished bottom-half in 2024.

Review both rosters and depth charts on the NHL teams page and explore season-long angles in the NHL Betting Guide. For divisional context, see the Metropolitan Division Odds blog.

Injuries and Conditions

New York Rangers

• Artemi Panarin (upper body) – expected to play
• J.T. Miller (lower body) – probable

Pittsburgh Penguins

• No new injuries reported

The indoor setup at Madison Square Garden provides ideal ice conditions, supporting both teams’ up-tempo styles.

Best Bets and Prediction

The Rangers’ combination of goaltending, home-ice advantage, and improved structure under Sullivan makes them a strong opening-night pick. Pittsburgh’s veterans can still generate offense, but their defense remains inconsistent.

Prediction: Rangers 4, Penguins 2
Best Bet: Rangers moneyline (-140 range)
Secondary Lean: Under 6.5 goals

Compare expert projections and insights on the NHL picks page before making your wagers.