Welcome back to NHL Predictions. 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. Our featured game of this edition is the Montreal Canadiens taking on the Carolina Hurricanes. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.
NHL Predictions
(Credit Image: © Mike Stocker/South Florida Sun Sentinel via ZUMA Press Wire)
Florida Panthers vs New York Rangers
Head-to-Head: Panthers 0-1 Rangers
How to Watch: US TV: NHL Network; MSG; Scripps Florida. Canada TV: SN1; TVA Sports.
Time: 1 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time (EDT)
We open up NHL predictions with a matchup between the Florida Panthers and the New York Rangers. Sergei Bobrovsky is the expected starter for the Panthers but always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. Florida is 5-5 in its previous 10 games but has dropped three of its last four games. Injuries have ravaged the Panthers as Sam Reinhart and Brad Marchand are among those out for the two-time defending champions.
Igor Shesterkin is the confirmed starter for the Blueshirts, who are 4-5-1 in their last 10 games. However, the Rangers stopped a five-game losing streak on Friday after defeating the Chicago Blackhawks. Both teams had lofty expectations, but the Rangers have already been eliminated from the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Mika Zibanejad has been a bright spot with 32 goals and 37 assists for 69 points.
The two teams were tabbed for plenty of success this season. However, the Panthers will salvage something out of this road trip with a win.
Prediction: Panthers win 4-2.