Minnesota Wild vs New York Rangers Prediction – 4/2/2025

The Minnesota Wild are set to face the New York Rangers on Wednesday, April 2, 2025, at Madison Square Garden. This inter-conference game holds significant implications for both teams as they vie for playoff positioning. The Wild aim to solidify their standing in the Western Conference, while the Rangers are in pursuit of an Eastern Conference Wild Card spot.

Minnesota Wild vs. New York Rangers Game Preview

As of April 2, 2025, the Minnesota Wild hold a record of 41-28-3-3, positioning them in the first Wild Card spot in the Western Conference with a six-point cushion. However, their recent performance has been inconsistent, with a 1-2-1 record over their last five games. Notably, they suffered a 3-2 shootout loss to the New Jersey Devils on Monday, marking the start of their current road trip.

The Wild's offense has been hampered by the absence of star winger Kirill Kaprizov, who remains sidelined due to injury. In his absence, center Marco Rossi has been under pressure to step up but has managed only five points in the past month, bringing his season total to 55 points. Veteran winger Mats Zuccarello has contributed 45 points this season, including three in his last five games. Defensively, Jared Spurgeon has been reliable, tallying 30 points and averaging 20 minutes of ice time per game.

In goal, Filip Gustavsson has assumed the primary role, posting a 2.50 goals-against average (GAA) and a .917 save percentage (SV%) with a 29-17-5 record. Backup Marc-Andre Fleury has also been solid, recording a 2.78 GAA and a .903 SV%.

On the other side, the New York Rangers enter the game with a 35-32-7 record, placing them in a tight race for the final Wild Card spot in the Eastern Conference. They are coming off a commanding 6-1 road victory against the San Jose Sharks, which snapped a brief two-game losing streak.

Offensively, winger Artemi Panarin has been a standout performer, amassing 79 points this season, including 20 in March alone. Center Vincent Trochek has added 51 points, while Mika Zibanejad, despite a recent slump, also has 51 points but carries a -18 rating. The recent acquisition of Arthur Kaliyev provided a brief boost before he was sidelined with an injury.

Between the pipes, Igor Shesterkin is expected to start. He has a 2.84 GAA, a .906 SV%, and a 24-26-5 record. Backup Jonathan Quick has struggled, with a 3.03 GAA and an .898 SV%.

Statistically, the Wild average 2.7 goals per game (28th in the NHL) and allow 2.8 goals per game (14th). The Rangers score 3.0 goals per game (15th) and concede 3.0 goals per game (18th).

Betting Insights

For bettors analyzing this game, several factors are noteworthy:

• Recent Performance: The Wild have struggled recently, losing four of their last five games and four of their past five road games. Conversely, the Rangers are coming off a decisive 6-1 win and are 2-2-1 in their last five games.
• Injuries: The absence of Kirill Kaprizov significantly impacts the Wild's offensive capabilities. The Rangers are relatively healthier, with Arthur Kaliyev being the notable absence.
• Goaltending: Filip Gustavsson has been more consistent for the Wild compared to Igor Shesterkin's recent performances for the Rangers.
• Head-to-Head: The Wild secured a 3-2 victory in their previous meeting this season.

Regarding betting odds, the Rangers are favored at home, reflecting their recent form and the Wild's injury concerns. The over/under is set at 5.5 goals, considering both teams' average goal totals and defensive records.

Minnesota Wild vs. New York Rangers Prediction

Considering the current dynamics, the Rangers appear to have an advantage. Their recent offensive surge, highlighted by a six-goal performance against the Sharks, coupled with the Wild's offensive struggles without Kaprizov, tilts the scales in New York's favor. Additionally, the Rangers' urgency to secure a playoff spot adds to their motivation.

While the Wild possess strong goaltending, the lack of offensive support may hinder their chances. The Rangers' home advantage at Madison Square Garden further bolsters their position.

Prediction: New York Rangers to win, covering the -1.5 spread. Total goals to go under 5.5.

As always, bettors should consider all factors and stay updated with any last-minute changes before placing wagers.

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