Rangers Projected to Edge Blue Jackets in Saturday NHL Clash
NEW YORK - The New York Rangers are favored to defeat the Columbus Blue Jackets in their Saturday matchup, according to betting markets, as the Rangers capitalize on the Blue Jackets’ struggles with finishing despite a high volume of shots.
The Rangers enter the game with momentum, highlighted by Vincent Trocheck’s strong recent performance, recording nine points in his last four games – a turnaround some attribute to a recent haircut. Trocheck has also tallied four points in the two games sence his return from injury.
Columbus, meanwhile, is coming off a pair of wins fueled by a high-speed roster and the mobility of defenseman Zach Werenski. The Blue Jackets consistently generate scoring chances, averaging 31 shots per game, but currently convert at a low nine percent rate. Werenski leads Columbus with a plus-9 rating.
A key to the Blue Jackets’ offensive approach is their heavy forecheck, which leads to puck recovery and funneling shots towards the net. This strategy positions them as a top-five team in the NHL in low-danger shot generation. However, this approach could be neutralized by the Rangers’ strong defensive play, as Igor Shesterkin has stopped 97 percent of low-danger shots against him, per MoneyPuck.
Columbus’ goaltending situation remains a concern, with Jet Greaves and Elvis Merzlinkins splitting time.Greaves currently has a 3.00 goals-against average and a .897 save percentage, with positioning lapses contributing to goals allowed despite the high shot volume faced.
The Blue Jackets’ power play has also been ineffective, ranking among the four least efficient in the league. The Rangers boast an 81 percent effectiveness on the penalty kill, further compounding columbus’ offensive challenges.
THE PLAY: Rangers (-115, betmgm)
Sean Treppedi, who handicaps the NFL, NHL, MLB and college football for the New York Post, focuses on picks that reflect market value while tracking trends to mitigate risk.
