Washington Capitals at New York Rangers Picks and Predictions for Sunday, October 12, 2025

By: David Anicetti Published 10/12/2025, 12:00 AM ET

The Washington Capitals visit the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden on Sunday, starting at 7:00 PM ET on NHL Network. Washington lost 3–1 to Boston in its season opener and sits 0–1–0, while New York split its first two (W 4-0 at Buffalo, L 3-0 vs. Pittsburgh) to sit 1–1–0. Both teams will be playing the second half of a back-to-back after games on Saturday. Score the winning goal with our NHL picks.

Washington Capitals Preview

Washington took 36 shots in its season opener against Boston but scored just once. Tom Wilson had the lone goal, and Aliaksei Protas picked up the only assist. The Capitals went 0-for-1 on the power play and gave up one goal when short-handed twice. Goalie Logan Thompson stopped 19 of 21 shots, finishing with a 2.05 goals-against average and a .905 save percentage.

The defense kept things tight, but the offense needs more from veterans Alex Ovechkin and Dylan Strome to avoid another slow start. Washington has to stay out of the penalty box and make the most of its early chances before the third period, when the Caps could feel the effects of playing twice in two days.

New York Rangers Preview

New York split its opening games, shutting out Buffalo before being blanked by Pittsburgh. J.T. Miller leads with two points (one goal, one assist), while Alexis Lafrenière has matched that total. The Rangers have averaged two goals per game and have yet to score on the power play, but have killed every penalty so far.

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Igor Shesterkin has been excellent with a 0.50 goals-against average, a .985 save percentage, and one shutout. The Rangers have defended well and will look for more offense from the top two lines at home Sunday. New York will also be playing on tired legs as they complete a back-to-back as well..

Washington Capitals vs New York Rangers Prediction

Both teams are on the second night of back-to-backs, which usually means a slower game. New York’s strong goaltending from Igor Shesterkin and more reliable power play and penalty kill give it the advantage at home. Final Score Prediction: New York Rangers win 3–1.