Odds, picks & prediction for home opener

The New York Rangers (1-1-0) are getting ready to make their highly-anticipated home debut in the 2023-24 regular season. They will be facing off against the Arizona Coyotes (1-0-0) at Madison Square Garden on Monday night at 7 p.m.

After an impressive 5-1 victory over the Buffalo Sabres last Thursday, the Rangers had some tough luck in their most recent game against the Columbus Blue Jackets over the weekend. The team had two goals disallowed and struggled defensively, resulting in a disappointing 5-3 defeat at Nationwide Arena on Saturday night.

On the other hand, the Coyotes pulled off a shocking upset in their first game of the season, with a thrilling 4-3 shootout victory over the New Jersey Devils at Prudential Center.

Now, let’s dive into my picks for the puck line, total, and moneyline for this exciting matchup at MSG.

Rangers vs. Coyotes Puck Line:
Rangers -1.5 (+106), Coyotes +1.5 (-125)

Considering the performances of both teams so far this season, it’s not surprising that the odds for the Rangers to cover the puck line are not very favorable, currently sitting at +106 (Bet $100 to win $106). However, I still believe that betting on the Rangers to cover this puck line is a good choice, especially at slightly over plus money odds.

The Rangers have already shown their offensive prowess with 73 shots on goal, making them one of the most aggressive teams in the NHL. Meanwhile, the Coyotes had a strong start against the Devils but faltered defensively towards the end of the game. The Rangers have the skills and star power to take advantage of any opportunities that come their way tonight. I’m confident that the Rangers will cover the puck line, especially at the attractive price of +106 on BetRivers Sportsbook.

Prediction: Rangers -1.5 (+106)

Rangers vs. Coyotes Total:
Over 6.5 goals (+100), Under 6.5 goals (-110)

Despite the small sample size, both teams have demonstrated their ability to score goals in the first week of the season. The Rangers have netted eight goals while the Coyotes scored four goals in their last game. However, I am inclined to bet on the under for this matchup. In the past six meetings between these teams, there have been six or fewer goals in five of those games.

I expect the Rangers’ goaltender, Igor Shesterkin, who will be starting his third game of the season, to have a strong performance and keep the Coyotes’ scoring in check. I anticipate a low-scoring affair at Madison Square Garden tonight. For the best available price, I recommend betting on the under 6.5 goals at -110 on multiple sportsbooks in New Jersey.

Prediction: Under 6.5 goals (-110)

Rangers vs. Coyotes Moneyline:
Rangers (-225), Coyotes (+192)

It comes as no surprise that the Rangers are heavily favored in this matchup. With a raucous home opener and one of the youngest teams in the NHL, the Coyotes will have a tough challenge on their hands. The Rangers have made key additions to their roster this offseason, adding more veteran presence to their team.

If you’re lucky enough to be attending the game at MSG tonight, you will receive some new team apparel at your seat. The favorite has dominated in the past 23 games between these teams, with a record of 21-2. The Rangers have had the upper hand in the last 10 matchups, boasting a 7-2-1 record. The Coyotes have struggled in recent meetings at Madison Square Garden, losing 11 out of the last 13 games.

While it’s still early in the season and the Coyotes have the potential to make a statement by defeating two of the top Eastern Conference teams on the road, I believe the Rangers will bounce back from their last game and secure a victory in their first home game. I recommend betting on the Rangers’ moneyline, even though the odds are relatively high at -225 (Bet $225 to win $100) on BetMGM.

For better value, you can place a smaller wager on the Rangers’ moneyline in regulation at -145 (Wager $145 to win $100). Alternatively, you can bet on the Rangers to win the game and for under 6.5 goals to be scored at +165 (Bet $100 to win $165) on DraftKings Sportsbook.

Prediction: Rangers 4, Coyotes 1

This article was originally published on NorthJersey.com: NY Rangers vs. Arizona Coyotes odds, picks, predictions for Monday.

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