NY Rangers (36-35-7) at NY Islanders (34-32-11)
- When: Apr 10 2025, 7:30 PM
- Where: UBS Arena, Belmont Park, NY, USA
- TV: MSGSN
Rangers vs Islanders Preview & Prediction
NY Islanders Moneyline -133 | Total: 6.0
The New York Islanders are priced as -133 Moneyline favorites with the total set at 6.0 as they host the New York Rangers on Thursday in a game that lacks the high-stakes drama of their legendary rivalry but still carries betting value.
New York Islanders Outlook
The Islanders (34-32-11, 79 points) are hanging by a thread in the Eastern Conference playoff race, sitting eight points back of the final wild-card spot with a game in hand. While technically still alive, another collapse like their stunning 7-6 overtime loss to Nashville on Tuesday could be the final nail.
Blowing a two-goal lead with less than four minutes remaining, including surrendering the tying goal with 40 seconds left and the game-winner in OT, continues a troubling trend. New York has given up 10 go-ahead or tying goals in the final three minutes of regulation this season — a stat that bettors can’t ignore when backing them against the spread or in live wagering spots.
Still, the Islanders have shown flashes of offensive firepower, and with pride and playoff survival on the line, expect a focused effort, especially in the first period.
Prediction for NYI: Expect the Islanders to come out strong after Tuesday’s embarrassment, especially against a Rangers team on a back-to-back. Look for New York to strike early and hold the lead. Islanders 3, Rangers 1.
New York Rangers Outlook
The Rangers (36-35-7, 79 points) are on life support. A loss Thursday would officially eliminate them from playoff contention, and the way they’ve played lately doesn’t inspire confidence. After being outscored 17-6 during a three-game skid — capped off by an 8-5 meltdown against the Flyers where they allowed six goals in the third period — this team looks gassed.
Goaltending has been inconsistent, the defense has fallen apart in crunch time, and they’ll be playing their second game in as many nights. Even with Mika Zibanejad putting up four points on Wednesday, the effort was wasted by an imploding defense.
The Rangers are 3-7-1 in their last 11 games, and have shown no ability to close out or respond when the pressure mounts. Bettors looking to fade a tired team in a tough road environment won’t find a better opportunity.
Betting Prediction & Lean
Moneyline: Lean Islanders -133 – with the Rangers on a back-to-back and the Isles desperate to stay alive, the edge goes to the home team.
Puck Line: Islanders -1.5 (+185) at plus money — this could turn into another unraveling late for New York’s other team.
Total: Slight lean to the Under 6 (-122). Despite both teams giving up late goals, expect a tighter, more conservative effort early in this rivalry game.
Final Score Prediction: Islanders 3, Rangers 1
If you’re playing props, backing Bo Horvat to bounce back with a goal after Tuesday’s critical penalty could be solid value. On the Rangers’ side, Zibanejad continues to carry the offense and is worth a look to register a point.
- NHL Odds source: MYBookie Sportsbook
