Non-conference foes clash at Madison Square Garden on Saturday afternoon when the Rangers host the Kings at 1:00 p.m. ET. Given New York’s struggles over its last 10 games, is L.A. the best bet in today’s Kings vs. Rangers matchup?
Game Matchup & Betting Odds
Los Angeles Kings (-105) at New York Rangers (-105); o/u 5.5
1:00 p.m. ET, Saturday, December 14, 2024
Madison Square Garden
TV: ESPN+
Kings vs. Rangers Public Betting: Bettors Backing New York
As of this writing, our NHL Public Betting Page shows that 63% of bets are on the Rangers’ moneyline. That said, this page is updated frequently so make sure that you click on the link provided to get the most up-to-date public betting information.
Rittich makes 23 saves in loss to Devils
David Rittich made 23 saves in Thursday’s 3-1 loss to the Devils. The Kings were thoroughly outplayed all night, managing to get only 13 shots on net against Jacob Markstrom, but Rittich kept his squad in the game until Jack Hughes broke a 1-1 tie with about seven minutes left in the third period. It was only the second time since the beginning of November that Rittich had allowed more than two goals, and over his last 12 appearances, he’s gone 7-4-0 with a 2.16 GAA and .902 save percentage. However, since Darcy Kuemper is healthy again, Rittich seems ticketed to return to the No. 2 role.
Panarin logs power-play assist in win
Artemi Panarin logged a power-play assist and two shots on goal in Wednesday’s 3-2 win over the Sabres. Panarin saw a four-game point streak snapped in a 2-1 loss to the Chicago on Monday. He bounced back with a first-period assist Wednesday, setting up Mika Zibanejad on the opening goal. Panarin is now at 15 goals, 20 helpers, 12 power-play points, 93 shots on net and a minus-4 rating through 28 appearances this season. He continues to be among the Rangers’ most reliable players while filling a top-six role.
Kings vs. Rangers Betting Prediction
Take Los Angeles. The Kings are just playing better hockey right now. They’re coming off a 3-1 loss at New Jersey but that defeat snapped a six-game winning streak. During that streak, the Kings allowed two or fewer goals in all seven contests. Their goal prevention has been outstanding. On the other side, the Rangers are coming off a 3-2 win at Buffalo but they’ve still dropped seven out of their last 10 games overall. During that span, they’re -$521.00 from a betting standpoint. By comparison, the Kings are 7-3 over their last 10 games and are +$254.00 from a betting standpoint.
Kings vs. Rangers Prediction: Los Angeles Kings -105