Last Saturday’s Game-3 of the Rangers and Penguins series was among the most entertaining in the postseason. New York rallied from a 4-1 first period deficit to tie the game after two periods. Midway through an intense third period, the Penguins pulled away to beat the NHL betting odds. The game featured numerous scoring chances and attacking styles. However, the Rangers did not advance to the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs as a free-wheeling team. New York relied on structure and defense for its success. Now the question is if New York can regain control of itself and the series.
2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs New York Rangers at Pittsburgh Penguins – Game 4
Date and Time: | Monday, May 9, 2022, 7 p.m. ET |
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Location: | PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
Rangers vs. Penguins TV Coverage: | ESPN |
SBG Odds Overview – Rangers Seek Renewal to Even the Series
Pittsburgh leads this best-of-7 series two games to one. Thus, the Rangers are feeling the online betting pressure for Game-4. While a win would even the series, a New York loss would put them on the brink.
As a result of Saturday’s game, the betting public will flock to the Penguins’ side. Squares are already inclined to take the home team in almost any playoff game. But the Rangers are coming off a draining loss that has the masses worried. Squares never mind laying the lumber for a good team on home ice. Counter to that is their lack of nerve at taking a road team in trouble. Even a good one.
On the other hand, sharps are going to take a hard look at the Rangers. Wise Guys know that squares will avoid New York out of terror. Oddsmakers are anticipating a stampede to the betting window on the Penguins. Therefore, the Rangers could offer enhanced wagering value. Sharps love nothing more than a good road team at a plus price. New York delivers that.
Gamblers Try to Get Into the Rangers’ Heads
On the whole, there are two ways that gamblers are looking at the Rangers. Will New York be down and cowering after their Game-3 comeback and collapse. Or will they play with the desperation of a team looking to avoid a 3-1 series deficit? Squares believe the Rangers are down and out. In comparison, Sharps see a capable team that will be focused and with an edge.
Rangers in Red Ink Run
Of great concern is that the Rangers have lost five of their most recent seven games. New York has gone over the total in five of its most recent six games. The Rangers finished second best for the fewest goals allowed in the regular season. But that defensive structure and reliable goaltending have been missing for most of this series.
Consider that goaltender Igor Shesterkin had a .935 save percentage and 2.07 goals-against average in the regular season. In the playoffs, his goals against is 3.23. Further, Shesterkin was pulled after the first period of Game-3.
Veteran Sid Looks Like Kid With Strong Showing
So far, future Hall of Famer Sidney Crosby has one goal and five assists in this series. Additionally, Jake Guentzel has a team-best four goals.
Rangers at Penguins SBG Free Picks
In this situation, the Rangers will bring a strong NHL betting motivational advantage. Look for New York to tighten up in Game-4.
Rangers at Penguins SBG Best Bet: New York Rangers.