Columbus Blue Jackets (18-28-10) vs. New York Rangers (39-16-3)
The Columbus Blue Jackets take on the New York Rangers on Wednesday, February 28, 2024 at Madison Square Garden as we provide our best daily NHL free picks. The Blue Jackets have struggled this season however, they’ve shown some signs of life recently in their last five games. The Rangers meanwhile have been one of the league’s top teams. They’ve won four of their last five contests. New York took the first two meetings between these teams this season.
Columbus’ offense has been led by newcomer Johnny Gaudreau, who paces the team with 40 points, including 32 assists. His playmaking ability could create issues for the Rangers defense. Youngster Kirill Marchenko has added scoring punch with 16 goals. On the blueline, Zach Werenski leads the way with 33 points. Defensively, the Jackets will need to contend with New York’s deep attack. Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins will also need to be sharp.
The Rangers feature one of the most potent offenses in the NHL, led by superstar Artemi Panarin’s 78 points. Panarin’s speed and skill make him a constant threat. Vincent Trocheck has also produced at a high level in his first season in New York, with 55 points so far. Chris Kreider leads the team with 29 goals thanks to his quick release and net-front presence. In net, Vezina winner Igor Shesterkin has been excellent once again. Columbus will need to generate offense to keep up.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs. New York Rangers Game Info
| When: | Wednesday, February 28, 2024, at 7:00 PM ET |
| Where: | Madison Square Garden |
| TV: | ESPN+ |
| Stream: | NHL.TV |
Goaltender Elvis Merzlikins vs. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin
Elvis Merzlikins has struggled to find consistency in net for Columbus this season. He has just 10 wins in 32 games along with a 3.33 GAA and .900 save percentage. The Latvian netminder has shown flashes of strong play at times, but the Blue Jackets’ porous defense has done him no favors. He will need to be at his best to slow down the Rangers’ elite scorers.
At the other end, Igor Shesterkin has picked up right where he left off last season when he won the Vezina Trophy. The Russian phenom boasts a 25-12-1 record with a 2.70 GAA and .909 save percentage for the campaign. Shesterkin utilizes his size and athleticism to make acrobatic saves look routine. Columbus will need to generate traffic in front and pounce on any rebounds to beat him.
NHL Odds/Point Spread: TBD, Total Odds: TBD
The betting odds for this game are yet to be determined, but given the Rangers’ superior record and home advantage, they are likely to be favored. Bettors should keep an eye on the puckline and moneyline as they become available, as well as the total odds, to make informed decisions.
Columbus Blue Jackets Betting Trends
The Blue Jackets’ improved play of late has translated to a 3-2 record over their past five contests. Columbus has been strong against the spread away from home, covering at a 64% clip on the road this season. The over has also hit frequently in Blue Jackets’ road matchups, going 13-15 so far. This bodes well for scoring expectations in this matchup at Madison Square Garden.
New York Rangers Betting Trends
Winners of four of their past five, the Rangers are rolling right now. They’ve been less consistent for bettors at home however, going just 16-14 against the spread at Madison Square Garden. The over has been a smart play though, hitting at a 48% rate in Rangers home contests. That trend could continue against the Blue Jackets’ suspect defense.
Columbus Blue Jackets vs. New York Rangers 2/28/24 Betting Picks
The Rangers should enter this home matchup as comfortable favorites given their significant edge in talent and recent play. Columbus may be able to keep it close for stretches, but New York’s offensive firepower seems likely to prevail. Backing the Rangers on the puckline for some added value makes sense. The over also looks appealing given both clubs’ tendencies for high-scoring affairs. Shesterkin over 29.5 saves and Panarin over 0.5 points are two strong Rangers prop bets to consider as well. For those using top bookie software, this game looks like a prime opportunity to back New York.
