Hurricanes vs. Rangers Game 3 Prediction and Odds (Schedule) (New York a Good Bet as Underdogs at Home)

The Carolina Hurricanes will carry a 2-0 series lead into Madison Square Garden for Game 3 of the Eastern Conference Semifinals on Sunday. It’s as close to a must-win game as you can get without the imminent fear of elimination. But, the Rangers are a very good team on their home ice and could turn this series right around if the Canes aren’t careful. But, the bookmakers are less than confident in that outcome and have the Rangers listed as even-money underdogs in their first home game of this series. 

Here are the odds for tonight’s matchup, courtesy of WynnBET Sportsbook.

Hurricanes vs. Rangers Odds and Total

Moneyline:

• Hurricanes -120
• Rangers +100

Puck line:

• Hurricanes -1.5 (-120)
• Rangers +1.5 (+100)

Total:

• 5.5 (Over -130/Under +110)

Hurricanes vs. Rangers Prediction and Pick

The Hurricanes finished the regular season with the best goals against per game average in the entire league at 2.44. They allowed just 200 goals all year with a save percentage of .916. Interestingly, the Rangers ranked second with 204 total goals and a better save rate of .921.

The Hurricanes kept their defense dominance going so far in this series after limiting the Rangers to one goal and 49 shots in two games. Those are not numbers you usually see in the second round of the playoffs. Unfortunately, the Rangers’ defense hasn’t been able to keep up with four goals allowed on 46 shots. This goes to show how incredible the Carolina goaltending game has been over the last two games. 

While I don’t think they recover from this poor start, I do think the Rangers have the beans to pull out a win today. They are 3-1 on their home ice during the playoffs and are averaging over four goals per game at MSG. This could be their last hurrah, but I can’t pass up getting the Rangers at home with such favorable odds. 

Pick: Rangers ML +100 

Follow all of Matt De Saro’s betting picks HERE