Each day, our writers here at Last Word On Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. For this edition, we will look at the Carolina Hurricanes hosting the New York Rangers. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025–26 season.
NHL Predictions with Rangers and Hurricanes
Time: 7:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)
Location: Lenovo Center in Raleigh, North Carolina
How to Watch: MSGSN, FanDuel Sports Network South, ESPN+
2025–26 Season Series: New York, 1 Carolina 1
The New York Rangers (19-17-4) continue their stretch against Metropolitan Division opponents with a tough test against the Carolina Hurricanes. These teams are no strangers to one another, and meetings between them are often defined by pace, physicality, and tight checking. With both clubs jockeying for position in the standings, this matchup carries added importance.
The Rangers enter the game looking to build consistency, something that has been a focal point throughout the season. While flashes of high-end offence have been present, New York’s success often hinges on their ability to stay structured defensively and capitalize on special teams opportunities.
Carolina (23-11-3), meanwhile, remains one of the league’s most aggressive possession teams. The Hurricanes thrive on forechecking pressure and sustained offensive-zone time, often wearing opponents down over the course of sixty minutes. When Carolina dictates the tempo, they are difficult to slow down.
New York Rangers Keys to the Game
For the Rangers, goaltending will once again play a pivotal role. Whether it’s Igor Shesterkin or his counterpart getting the start, New York will need strong early saves to weather Carolina’s initial push. Limiting second-chance opportunities in front of the net will be critical.
Offensively, the Rangers must take advantage of their top-end skill. Players like Artemi Panarin and Mika Zibanejad need to create offence off the rush, especially against a Hurricanes team that can be vulnerable when pinching aggressively. New York’s power play could also be a difference-maker if they’re able to draw penalties.
Empty net goal for New York!Scored by Simon Holmstrom with 00:16 remaining in the 3rd period.New York: 2New York: 0#NYRvsNYI #Isles #NYR
— NHL Goals (@nhlgoals.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T01:56:57.993705Z
Carolina Hurricanes Keys to the Game
Carolina’s success starts with their defensive structure and puck movement from the back end. Quick exits and active defensemen allow the Hurricanes to keep constant pressure on opposing teams. If they can force turnovers in the neutral zone, they’ll generate quality scoring chances.
Depth scoring is another area where Carolina holds an edge. The Hurricanes are capable of rolling four lines, which can create matchup problems for the Rangers over the course of the game. Winning battles along the boards and maintaining possession will be a priority.
Carolina goal!Scored by Eric Robinson with 15:23 remaining in the 2nd period.Assisted by Andrei Svechnikov and Sebastian Aho.Carolina: 2Detroit: 1#DETvsCAR #RaiseUp #LGRW
— NHL Goals (@nhlgoals.bsky.social) 2025-12-28T01:18:15.418345Z
Prediction
This matchup projects to be a fast-paced, tightly contested game. The Rangers have the talent to keep things close, but Carolina’s ability to control play at five-on-five gives them a slight advantage. If New York’s goaltending stands tall, this could go down to the wire, but the Hurricanes’ depth may ultimately tip the scales.
Prediction: Hurricanes 3, Rangers 2
Prop Bets to Watch
Artemi Panarin Over 0.5 Points
Panarin continues to be the engine of the Rangers’ offence and remains their most consistent scoring threat. Against a Hurricanes team that plays aggressively in transition, Panarin’s ability to create off the rush and on the power play makes this a strong look. If New York finds the scoresheet, there’s a good chance he’s involved.
Sebastian Aho Anytime Goal Scorer
Aho thrives in games like this, especially against divisional opponents where matchups tighten and opportunities are limited. His ability to find soft spots in coverage and convert high-danger chances makes him a solid anytime goal option, particularly if Carolina controls possession as expected.
Igor Shesterkin Over 29.5 Saves (if starting)
Carolina consistently ranks among the league leaders in shot attempts, and that volume often translates into high save totals for opposing goaltenders. Even in a competitive game, Shesterkin could see heavy action, making the over on saves an appealing prop.
Total Goals Under 6.0
Meetings between these two teams often trend toward structured, playoff-style hockey. With both sides emphasizing defensive responsibility and strong goaltending, the under presents value in what projects to be a tight, low-scoring contest.
Disclaimer: Projected lineups are based on available data at time of writing. Please check social media and official team sources for the very latest lineup news before locking in any daily fantasy roster or prop wagers.
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