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. Today, we focus on a matchup between a struggling New York Rangers visiting San Jose to take on the Sharks. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions as the 2025-26 season continues.
NHL Predictions Rangers at Sharks
Season Series:
This is the second matchup for New York and San Jose this season. San Jose leads the series 1-0 after a 6-5 overtime win against New York in their previous meeting
How to Watch: MSG, NBC Sports Bay Area, ESPN+
Puck drop is at 10:00 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST) at the SAP Center at San Jose.
The Sharks have had stability in capitalizing on attempts that give them an advantage in a close game having a 13-4-2 record in games decided by one goal. New York, 7-6-6 in one goal matchups, and still struggling for consistency has hopes to begin this “retool” era with a push forward in the right direction.
The Story for the New York Rangers
The Rangers made headlines recently in announcing their plans to utilize the remainder of the season to not rebuild but to “retool.”
The Rangers enter this one on the heels of a tough stretch, dropping back-to-back games in Southern California after falling 5–3 to the Anaheim Ducks and 4–3 to the Los Angeles Kings earlier this week. Despite offensive flashes including J.T. Miller’s multi-goal effort and Mika Zibanejad’s extended point streak New York’s consistency has been a constant issue.
The feed. The finish. What a sequence 😮💨 pic.twitter.com/51I8xrmXF1
— New York Rangers (@NYRangers) January 21, 2026
The Story Over In San Jose
The Sharks split their recent road trip in Florida, defeating the Panthers before falling to the Lightning 4–1. San Jose sits two games out of a Stanley Cup Playoff Wild Card spot in the Pacific Division and has been buoyed by emerging stars like Macklin Celebrini, who was a driving force in the clubs’ first meeting this season with a hat trick in a high-scoring 6–5 overtime win.
Gettin’ reps 💪 pic.twitter.com/HitJBhMqgF
— San Jose Sharks (@SanJoseSharks) January 22, 2026
NHL Predictions
Panarin and Celibrini are among their respective teams’ top offensive catalysts. Celebrini’s 72 points lead the Sharks and present a constant threat. Panarin’s playmaking ability will be vital if the Rangers want to keep pace offensively.
With Shesterkin still out for New York the game’s balance relies on Askarov’s consistency for San Jose to push the pace and remain in control.
In a matchup that can come down to special teams execution and goaltending the Sharks have an edge that could be the deciding factor.
NHL Prediction: Sharks 4 – Rangers 2
Prop Bets to Consider:
Mika Zibanejad, Over 2.5 Shots on Goal
Zibanejad has quietly increased his shot volume lately, particularly when the Rangers are chasing games. If San Jose gets an early lead, expect him to fire often.
Panarin, Over 0.5 Assists
Panarin continues to drive the Rangers’ offense, especially on the power play. Against a Sharks team that can give up high-danger chances off puck movement, Panarin’s playmaking sets up well even if New York doesn’t dominate possession.
Sharks Team Total, Over 2.5 Goals
San Jose’s offence has been far more reliable at home, and the Rangers’ defensive injuries plus road fatigue create opportunity.
Main Photo: Stan Szeto-Imagn Images
Disclaimers:
Projected lineups are based on available data at time of writing. Please check social media and official team sources for the very latest lineup news before locking in any daily fantasy roster or prop wagers.
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