Top NHL Picks and Predictions Today for Lightning vs Rangers Game 2
The Colorado Avalanche opened up a 2-0 series lead in the Western Conference Finals with a win over Edmonton Thursday night, and are in prime position to advance to the Stanley Cup Finals.
Tonight, the New York Rangers hope to open a 2-0 lead of their own over the Tampa Bay Lightning at 8:00 PM EST. BetSided's Iain MacMillan and I have analyzed the matchup and we've got a pair of best bets for Game 2.
Let's check out the odds from WynnBET Sportsbook before we get into this pivotal Lightning vs Rangers Game 2 matchup:
Lightning vs. Rangers Game 2 Odds and Total
Moneyline:
- Lightning -125
- Rangers +105
Puck line:
- Lightning -1.5 (+200)
- Rangers +1.5 (-250)
Total:
- 5.5 (Over -105/Under -115)
Lightning vs Rangers Game 2 Best Bets
Lightning (-125) vs Rangers
If you're following me on Twitter, or have read any of my article recently, then you won't be surprised to find out that I'm on the Lightning to win Game 2.
I placed a sizable bet on them to win the series following their Game 1 loss, but for good reason.
The Rangers were largely outplayed in Game 1, but were the beneficiaries of Andrei Vasilevskiy's worst career playoff game. He's too experienced and consistent to have two stink bomb games in a row, so I expect him to bounce back in a big way on Friday night. If he does, the Lightning will be in a fantastic spot to steal a game on the road.
Give me the Lightning to win Game 2, head back to Tampa Bay with the series tied at 1-1.
-Iain MacMillan
You can track Iain's bets on Betstamp here.
Rangers (+105) vs Lightning
You may have heard, but the Lightning have won 18 consecutive playoff games following a loss. The Rangers have won seven in a row at home, so someone's unbeaten streak is coming to an end.
But I'm going to have to disagree with Iain here and back New York. This is quickly looking like a team of destiny whose offense is catching fire at the perfect time to pair with the best goalie in the NHL, Igor Shesterkin.
The likely Vezina Trophy winner and Hart Trophy finalist has been better than advertised, stopping at least 94.9% of shots in six of his last seven starts. Shesterkin has allowed just six goals total in his last four home games, while the Rangers are averaging 4.57 per match in their seven-game winning streak.
New York knows how difficult it'll be to beat Tampa Bay on the road, so they need to make these matchups at Madison Square Garden count. At plus money, I love the chances for them to continue their strong play. It's destiny, baby.
- Joe Summers
Follow all of Joe Summers' betting picks here.