We’ve seen multiple times this spring how quickly NHL playoff series can turn. The San Jose Sharks had their way with the Los Angeles Kings for the first three games of their first-round series, only to drop the next four games in a historic collapse. The St. Louis Blues were up 2-0 on the Chicago Blackhawks and then lost the next four games.
The Pittsburgh Penguins are the latest team to see their fortunes shift dramatically. Up 3-1 over a New York Rangers team unable to score goals, with a chance to seal the deal at home in Game 5, the Penguins seemed set for the Eastern Conference finals. But the Rangers rallied to win the next two contests and force a deciding Game 7 tonight in Pittsburgh (7 p.m. ET, NBC Sports Network).
The Penguins now need a reversal of their own. In Games 5 and 6, the Rangers outscored the Penguins 8-2, including a dominating 5-1 victory in Pittsburgh in Game 5. However, the Penguins remain substantial favorites for tonight’s game, at -160 at the LVH SuperBook. The Rangers are available at +147. The total for the game is five goals.
The Rangers' turnaround is attributable to a few different factors. Martin St. Louis’ play has improved since the passing of his mother. Chris Kreider, one of the Rangers' best forwards this season, returned in Game 4 after a long layoff due to a broken hand. It also helps that Henrik Lundqvist is playing like one of the best goalies in the world at the moment, saving 67 of 69 shots over the past two games.
Still, the Penguins have Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin, who are almost always the best two players when they are on the ice. And the importance of what this game means for the Penguins franchise has not been lost on them.
The Rangers are fully healthy for the Game 7. The Penguins are expected to be without defenseman Brooks Orpik, again due to a lower-body injury. He has suited up for just one game in the series.
Rangers at Penguins – 7 p.m. ET – NBC Sports Network
Money line and total
Rangers +147
Penguins -160
Total: 5 goals (OVER -104, UNDER -104)
Puck line
Rangers +1.5 (-205)
Penguins -1.5 (+188)
Read our full NHL preview for Tuesday and check current betting lines on our live odds page.