Free Picks: New York Rangers vs. Philadelphia Flyers

Philadelphia were considered one of the best teams in the league in the early going of the season. However, their projections have changed mightily as they are happy to hit the win column once in a while. Monday night, the Flyers take on the New York Rangers – a team that has flipped the script and their season around.

Earlier this season, the Flyers were not only one of the best teams in the NHL, but they were considered Stanley Cup favorites. However, times have changed and now the Flyers are looking to scrape back into the win column.

Monday night against the New York Rangers, Philly looks to end a 2-game losing skid. As for New York, the Rangers attempt to win their second game in as many tries, after successfully snapping a three-game skid on Saturday.

New York has turned their season around. The Rangers were down and out early, but have since racked up the Ws. But with that being said, for this free NHL pick, I want to focus on total goals.

One saving grace for the Rangers this season has been their defense, specifically, goals allowed. New York has since improved in that category and now sits comfortably in 9th place in goals allowed. The Rangers also rank 23rd in shots against per game, meaning they do a decent job in stopping the opposing team from collecting shots.

The Flyers’ offense continues to be solid; I’ll admit. However, I think with their current woes, the mental game will be huge in this one. Philadelphia has struggled in recent games and I think their upcoming contest against New York will add another list of challenges.

On top of that, the Flyers are one of the worst shooting teams in the league. They tally a mere 28 shots per game, good for only 29th in the NHL. Only two teams shoot less on average than the Flyers – Anaheim and Arizona.

I love choosing the over on BetPicks, but I think all statistical signs are pointing to a low-scoring contest.

• The total has gone UNDER in 7 of the Rangers’ last 9 games at home.
• New York averages 1.70 goals per game against Philadelphia in last 10 meetings.
• Philadelphia have lost 4 of their last 5 games.
• The Flyers rank 19^th in goals against.