NHL Preview: New York Rangers (28-25-4) vs. New York Islanders (25-24-7)

Game Details

• Date: February 25, 2025
• Time: 7:30 PM ET
• Location: UBS Arena, Elmont, NY
• TV Channels: MSGSN, MSG+, ESPN+
• Streaming: ESPN+, NHL.tv

Key Storylines

1. Crosstown Rivalry: The New York Rangers and New York Islanders share one of the most intense rivalries in the NHL. This game is crucial as both teams are battling for a wild card spot in the Eastern Conference. The Rangers are currently 11th in the conference with 60 points, while the Islanders are 12th with 57 points.
2. Rangers’ Recent Form: The Rangers have been inconsistent this season but have shown resilience. They have recorded a point in 15 of their 21 games since the beginning of 2025, with a record of 12-6-3. They recently defeated the Pittsburgh Penguins 5-3, despite being outshot 39-16.
3. Islanders’ Struggles: The Islanders are on a three-game losing streak, including a recent 4-3 loss to the Dallas Stars. They have struggled with injuries and have been without star forward Mathew Barzal.

Players to Watch

• Artemi Panarin (Rangers): Panarin leads the Rangers with 59 points this season. His playmaking ability will be crucial for the Rangers’ success.
• Adam Fox (Rangers): Fox has been a standout defenseman for the Rangers, with 47 points this season. He has recorded a point streak of at least six games for the eighth time in his career.
• Bo Horvat (Islanders): Horvat leads the Islanders with 41 points this season. His leadership and scoring ability will be essential for the Islanders.
• Kyle Palmieri (Islanders): Palmieri has extended his goal streak to three games and ranks third on the Islanders with 38 points this season.

Goaltending Matchup

• Igor Shesterkin (Rangers): Shesterkin is expected to start for the Rangers. He has a record of 19-20-2 with a 2.98 GAA and a .903 SV% this season.
• Ilya Sorokin (Islanders): Sorokin is expected to start for the Islanders. He has a record of 20-17-4 with a 2.72 GAA and a .906 SV% this season.

New York Rangers                           – 120

New York Islanders                         5.5

Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Monday, February 24, 2025