The Edmonton Oilers are set to face the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on March 16, 2025, at 7 p.m. ET. This matchup carries great importance for both teams as they navigate their playoff aspirations, with the Oilers vying for a commanding lead as they pursue the top spot in the Pacific Division.
Coming off their most recent games, the Oilers notched a narrow 2-1 victory against the New York Islanders on March 14, showcasing their resilience as they aim to extend their current form. Meanwhile, the Rangers secured a convincing 4-0 win over the Columbus Blue Jackets just one day later. The stark momentum swing signals competing trajectories as the teams head toward this high-stakes clash.
The Oilers enter the game as the favorites with betting odds set at -154 to win, implying a 60.6% chance of clinching the victory. The Rangers, on the other hand, are considered underdogs at +129, which gives them a 43.7% chance of success. The over/under for the total goals scored is positioned at 6.5, reflective of each team's scoring capabilities.
Through 57 games as the moneyline favorite this season, the Oilers have won 32 times, demonstrating their consistent ability to perform under pressure. They've also managed to win 25 of the 41 contests with moneyline odds lower than -154, which bodes well for their current standing.
Statistically, the Oilers are averaging 3.2 goals per game this season, though this figure drops to 2.6 over their last 10 outings. Conversely, the Rangers have struggled offensively, scoring merely 2.4 goals over their previous five games, resulting from poor shot suppression which ranks them 22nd and 27th respectively for goals against.
One key player to watch for the Oilers is Zach Hyman, who has recently found himself disconnected from the scoring sheet, registering only one point in his last seven games. But with Hyman positioned on Connor McDavid's wing during even-strength play, there remains significant potential for offensive resurgence. Analysts urge bettors to keep him on their radar, especially considering Hyman's integral role on the power play setup featuring stars like McDavid and Leon Draisaitl.
Hyman’s recent lack of scoring could be deceiving, as statistics show the Oilers have produced more than 12 expected goals during his on-ice time over the last seven games, yet he has only been involved on three occasions, marking him with an underwhelming individual points percentage of 33%. Commentators note, "It's abnormal for him to be uninvolved to this extent."
On the defensive side, the Rangers have struggled recently, leading the league with 5:50 spent per game shorthanded since the 4 Nations tournament concluded. This creates opportunities for the Oilers to exploit, and could put pressure on the Rangers’ goaltending as Edmonton looks to capitalize on any lapses.
Connor McDavid is another player who should be significant to the Oilers’ prospects. Following his rest days, he consistently registers substantial shot totals, averaging 2.5 shots per game across his last 10. Notably, he recorded two or more shots every game after rest days, underlining the potential for McDavid to break through for offense against the beleaguered Rangers.
Defensively, the Rangers must improve their and manage to stem the tide against dynamic forwards like McDavid and Hyman to have any chance against this formidable Oilers side. Historical trends indicate little optimism for the Rangers, as they have lost four of their last five games heading to this matchup.
Each of these games holds added significance as the Oilers seek to solidify their position, currently resting with 80 points—firmly below the Golden Knights. With the Kings dangerously close at just one point behind, the pressure mounts and this contest must serve as another notch toward their playoff pursuits.
Meanwhile, the Rangers are locked in battle, vying for prime position within the Metropolitan Division. Standing fifth with 70 points, they are tied with the Columbus Blue Jackets and remain eight points shy of the Devils for the wildcard spot. For New York, this game serves as more than just another contest; it’s pivotal to their playoff ambitions.
This high-stakes rivalry promises to deliver thrilling action, with both teams needing to pile on the intensity as they vie for their playoff futures. While the Oilers have shown they can bounce back when required, the Rangers need to shake their recent streak if they hope to rise again.
Predictions suggest the Oilers could take the win, with expectations leaning toward a lower-scoring game, maintaining focus on defensive execution from both teams. With the puck set to drop at 7:00 p.m. ET, fans should gear up for what promises to be another thrilling chapter written inside Madison Square Garden.