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 trends, then makes predictions based on how the game might play out. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions as the 2025 season continues. Today, we have the Ottawa Senators visiting the New York Rangers.
NHL Predictions with Senators and Rangers
Season Series: Rangers won 4-2 in Ottawa in early December.
Time: 7:30 p.m. Eastern Standard Time
How to Watch: MSG, ESPN+, RDS2, Sportsnet
Location: Madison Square Garden in New York, New York.
New York Rangers Analysis
The Rangers return home looking to tighten up their overall game after an uneven stretch. While New York has shown some defensive vulnerability at times, their offensive depth continues to be a major advantage.
Artemi Panarin remains the focal point of the Rangers’ attack, with strong secondary support throughout the lineup. When New York plays with structure, they are difficult to beat at Madison Square Garden, particularly when they establish forecheck pressure early.
Goaltending is another key factor for the Rangers. When they get steady play in net, it allows them to play more aggressively through the neutral zone. Against an Ottawa team prone to defensive breakdowns, New York should have opportunities to create sustained pressure and force mistakes.
Taking it one day at a time pic.twitter.com/V4s27xnqK9
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) January 14, 2026
Ottawa Senators Analysis
The Senators continue to search for consistency as the season moves along. Ottawa has shown flashes of offensive upside, led by Tim Stützle and Brady Tkachuk, but defensive lapses and inconsistent goaltending have often undone strong starts.
Ottawa’s biggest issue remains play in their own zone. They struggle to limit high-danger chances, and that problem becomes magnified against teams with elite finishing ability. While the Senators can generate offence off the rush, extended defensive-zone time has been costly, particularly against Stanley Cup Playoff-calibre opponents.
Special teams could be Ottawa’s path to staying competitive in this matchup. If their power play can capitalize early and keep the Rangers chasing the game, the Senators may be able to shorten the bench and control pace. However, discipline will be critical against New York’s skilled top-six forward group.
Same score after ✌️#GoSensGo pic.twitter.com/2IjzzhQeFF
— Ottawa Senators (@Senators) January 14, 2026
Key Matchup Factors and Home Ice Advantage
The Rangers have generally been more comfortable at MSG, where last change allows them to dictate matchups.
Defensive Consistency
Ottawa’s defensive-zone play versus New York’s top-six scoring depth is a major mismatch on paper.
Discipline
Both teams can struggle with penalties, but New York’s power play has the edge if this game turns special teams heavy.
Prediction
The Senators are capable of hanging around early, especially if they can strike first. However, over the course of 60 minutes, New York’s depth and ability to capitalize on defensive mistakes should make the difference.
NHL Prediction: New York Rangers 4, Ottawa Senators 2
Prop Bet of the Night
Rangers Over 3.5 Team Total Goals
Ottawa’s defensive inconsistency and issues in their own zone make this an appealing look. If the Rangers establish sustained pressure and draw penalties, they should generate enough quality chances to reach four goals.
Main Photo: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images
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