2025-10-20 Minnesota at N.Y. Rangers Matchup Preview
Tonight's playoff matchup features Minnesota and the New York Rangers, with both teams seeking to gain an early advantage in the series.
Game Overview
The Minnesota Wild visit Madison Square Garden to face the New York Rangers in what promises to be a tightly contested playoff battle. Both teams have identical records early in the season with three wins, three losses, and one overtime loss which speaks to their respective regular season consistency.
Minnesota Wild Breakdown
Minnesota's offense is anchored by a formidable power play unit, converting on 38.46 percent of their opportunities. Their proficiency with the man advantage could prove to be a deciding factor in this series. However, their ability to generate shots on goal is middling, averaging 27.60 shots per game.
Defensively, the Wild allow 29.61 shots against per game, and their penalty kill unit will be tested against a Rangers team looking to capitalize on their power play chances. They also win 46.70 percent of their faceoffs, which may lead to the Rangers controlling more puck possession.
New York Rangers Breakdown
The Rangers' offense averages 28.59 shots per game. However, the team struggles on the power play, converting only 15.79 percent of their chances. A greater level of effectiveness on the power play would certainly benefit the team as the playoffs continue.
On defense, the Rangers allow 29.89 shots against per game. The Rangers benefit from winning 53.57 percent of their faceoffs, which is a considerable advantage in controlling possession. They will need to leverage this strength to limit Minnesota's scoring chances.
Key Matchups
The Wild's potent power play versus the Rangers' penalty kill will be a critical area to watch. If Minnesota can draw penalties and convert at their current rate, they could put significant pressure on the Rangers. Conversely, if the Rangers can stay disciplined and limit Minnesota's power play opportunities, they can neutralize a key component of the Wild's attack.
Another crucial matchup will be the Rangers' ability to win faceoffs and maintain possession against Minnesota's defensive structure. The Rangers must also exploit any mismatches in the offensive zone with smart puck movement and player positioning. If the Rangers can generate consistent offensive zone time, it will force the Wild's defense to tire and open up scoring opportunities.
Intangibles
Home-ice advantage could play a role in this game. The Rangers will look to feed off the energy of their home crowd at Madison Square Garden, but the Wild are a veteran team and will be able to handle the raucous crowd.
Prediction
The Rangers' slight edge in faceoff percentage and overall shot volume, coupled with their home-ice advantage, gives them a slight edge in this matchup. Their ability to control the puck and generate scoring chances will be pivotal. While Minnesota's power play is a weapon, the Rangers' defense should be able to limit their opportunities. Minnesota will get chances, but ultimately, the Rangers will prevail.
Score Prediction
Minnesota: 2
N.Y. Rangers: 3