New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins Picks and Predictions for Saturday January 31, 2026

By: Kim Smith Published 01/31/2026, 04:35 AM ET

The New York Rangers travel to western Pennsylvania on Saturday afternoon to face the Pittsburgh Penguins at PPG Paints Arena. Puck drop is set for 3:30 PM, and the game will be televised nationally on ABC. Pittsburgh enters this matchup as the home favorite at -192 on the moneyline. The total for the game is set at 6.5 goals, while the puck line is off the board. Before placing any wagers, make sure to check out our free NHL picks for more daily insight and value.

Rangers Trying to Halt the Slide on the Road

The New York Rangers come into this matchup with a 22-27-6 overall record and a respectable 16-13-2 mark on the road. However, recent form has been an issue, as the Rangers have dropped four of their last five games, with losses to the Islanders twice, San Jose, and Los Angeles, while picking up an overtime win over Boston. That stretch reflects a team struggling to find consistency, especially defensively.

From a statistical perspective, New York averages 2.65 goals per game while allowing 3.15 goals against. They generate 25.8 shots per game but surrender 28.6 shots, often putting pressure on their goaltending. Special teams have been a bright spot, as the Rangers’ power play operates at an efficient 22.6 percent, and their penalty kill sits at 79.1 percent.

One encouraging aspect for New York is their discipline while short-handed. The Rangers have allowed zero short-handed goals this season and have chipped in three of their own. Still, defensive-zone breakdowns at even strength have been costly, and that trend is difficult to overcome against a hot Pittsburgh offense.

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Penguins Rolling at Home and Overall

The Pittsburgh Penguins enter Saturday’s matchup with a 27-14-11 overall record and a solid 12-7-7 mark on home ice. Pittsburgh is red-hot, riding a five-game winning streak with victories over Chicago, Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary, and Seattle. That run highlights a team playing confident, structured hockey at both ends of the ice.

Offensively, Pittsburgh averages 3.29 goals per game while allowing just 2.84 goals against. The Penguins generate 28.7 shots per game and limit opponents to 27.6 shots, consistently controlling possession. Their special teams have been excellent, with a lethal power play converting at 27.4 percent and a strong penalty kill operating at 83.6 percent.

What truly stands out is Pittsburgh’s balance. They can score at even strength, capitalize on the power play, and protect leads late in games. With zero short-handed goals allowed and disciplined defensive play, the Penguins have been closing games efficiently, especially at PPG Paints Arena.

New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins Pick

Pittsburgh Penguins -192 (Moneyline)

I’m backing Pittsburgh on the moneyline in this matchup. The Penguins are playing their best hockey of the season and have a clear edge in offensive efficiency, special teams, and recent form. With the Rangers struggling defensively and Pittsburgh firing on all cylinders, the home side is the safer play despite the heavier price.

New York Rangers vs Pittsburgh Penguins Total Pick

Over 6.5 Goals

I’m taking the over in this game. Pittsburgh’s offense is clicking, and New York has had trouble keeping pucks out of their own net. With both teams owning capable power plays and the Rangers often chasing games, this matchup sets up well to reach or exceed the posted total.

Final Score Prediction:

Pittsburgh Penguins 5, New York Rangers 3

This prediction was written before the completion of game play on Friday.

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