The New York Rangers and the New Jersey Devils are two of the most storied franchises in the National Hockey League (NHL). They have a long-standing rivalry that dates back to the 1980s and has produced some of the most memorable moments in hockey history. As the two teams prepare to face off in the upcoming season, let’s take a comprehensive look at their head-to-head history, odds, and predictions.
Head-to-Head History
The Rangers and Devils have played each other 356 times in the regular season, with the Rangers holding a slight edge with 166 wins to the Devils’ 146. However, the Devils have had more success in the playoffs, winning four out of their five postseason series against the Rangers.
One of the most memorable moments in their rivalry was the 1994 Eastern Conference Finals, where the Rangers defeated the Devils in seven games en route to winning their first Stanley Cup in 54 years. The series featured a Game 7 double-overtime winner by Rangers captain Mark Messier.
Odds
As of now, the odds for the upcoming season series between the Rangers and Devils are fairly even. According to BetMGM, the Rangers are listed as -120 favorites to win the series, while the Devils are listed at +100 underdogs.
However, it’s important to note that odds can change throughout the season based on injuries, team performance, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to keep an eye on the latest odds before placing any bets.
Predictions
Both the Rangers and Devils have made significant changes to their rosters in the offseason. The Rangers added star winger Artemi Panarin and defenseman Jacob Trouba, while the Devils acquired former Norris Trophy winner P.K. Subban and No. 1 overall draft pick Jack Hughes.
The Rangers have a strong offense led by Panarin, Mika Zibanejad, and Chris Kreider, but their defense and goaltending remain question marks. The Devils, on the other hand, have a solid defense corps and a young, talented forward group, but their goaltending is unproven.
Based on these factors, it’s difficult to predict which team will come out on top in the upcoming series. However, it’s safe to say that fans can expect another intense and competitive battle between these two bitter rivals.
In conclusion, the Rangers vs Devils series is always one of the most highly anticipated matchups of the NHL season. With a rich history and evenly matched teams, fans can expect another thrilling chapter in their rivalry. While the odds and predictions may be up in the air, one thing is for certain: this series will not disappoint.