The New York Rangers (1-1) and Pittsburgh Penguins (1-1) meet for Game 3 of their 1st-round Eastern Conference playoff series Saturday at PPG Paints Arena in Pittsburgh. The series is tied 1-1. Puck drop is scheduled for 7 p.m. ET (TNT). Below, we look at the Rangers vs. Penguins odds and lines, and make our expert NHL picks, predictions and bets.
The Rangers saw Igor Shesterkin make 79 saves in a triple-overtime loss in Game 1, coming up just short in a 4-3 loss. New York bounced back with a 5-2 victory in Game 2, as the offense came alive and looked sharp.
The Penguins had a wild ride in Game 1. Already down Tristan Jarry due to a foot injury, they were forced to start backup Casey DeSmith. He lasted until double-overtime before exiting with a lower-body injury. Since, it was determined he will need core muscle surgery, and DeSmith is done for the season. Louis Domingue will make the start in Game 3 trying to keep his team in it.
Rangers at Penguins odds and lines
Odds provided by Tipico Sportsbook; access USA TODAY Sports Scores and Sports Betting Odds hub for a full list. Lines last updated at 7:55 a.m. ET.
- Money line: Rangers -125 (bet $125 to win $100) | Penguins +102 (bet $100 to win $102)
- Against the spread (ATS): Rangers -1.5 (+200) | Penguins +1.5 (-290)
- Over/Under (O/U): 5.5 (O: -130 | U: +105)
Rangers at Penguins projected goalies
Igor Shesterkin (36-13-4, 2.07 GAA, .935 SV%, 6 SO – regular season) vs. Louis Domingue (1-1-0, 2.02 GAA, .952 SV%, 0 SO – regular season)
Shesterkin has been nothing short of amazing in this series so far, already stopping 118 shots across the first two games with six goals allowed. That’s ridiculous, and he isn’t going to get outdueled in this one by a journeyman.
Domingue has been thrust into the starting role out of desperation, but being the No. 1 guy has never really been his thing. He made 35 saves in Game 2, but also allowed five goals. Expect more of the same here.
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Rangers at Penguins picks and predictions
Prediction
Rangers 4, Penguins 2
Money line
The RANGERS (-125) are a decent play on the road in this Game 3 in the Steel City, and it’s surprising that they’re not favored by more with the Penguins (+102) down to their third-string goaltender. Take advantage.
Against the spread
The RANGERS -1.5 (+200) are worth a look on the puck line for a chance to double up. Yes, New York failed to even win outright in Game 1, but it easily covered the puck line in Game 2, getting to Domingue early and often. Look for more of the same in this one.
Over/Under
OVER 5.5 (-130) is the best play on the board, as New York has the offensive weapons to take care of the Over all on its own. Pittsburgh will get at least a couple past Shesterkin, however, spurred on by a boisterous home crowd, at least early on. We should see at least six total goals, if not more.
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