NHL free picks: Rangers vs. Blackhawks, Wild vs. Canucks

An Original Six rivalry will be renewed Wednesday night, as the New York Rangers visit the Chicago Blackhawks at the United Center. Also on the docket is an intriguing West Coast battle between the Minnesota Wild and Vancouver Canucks.

The Rangers have been rewarding their backers on a regular basis, while the Blackhawks have bungled away one game after another lately. Expect the trends to continue.

New York has won five straight road games. Although they dropped their most recent affair, a 3-1 decision at Madison Square Garden against the surging Bruins, bettors should not be discouraged. The Rangers are 11-3 in their last 14 games after scoring two or fewer goals in their previous contest.

Chicago is just 1-6 in its last seven games and has scored two goals or fewer five times in that span. The Blackhawks’ power play has cashed in on only one of its last 18 chances, which spells trouble, because New York has killed 13 straight penalties.

NHL free pick: Rangers moneyline

If recent results between the Wild and Canucks are any indication, fans should be treated to an up-tempo affair.

The Over is 6-2-1 in Vancouver’s last nine games. Part of the reason for this run is the Canucks’ recent success on the power play, where they’ve converted six of their last 17 opportunities. They should feast on Minnesota’s feeble penalty kill that’s 30th in the NHL (74.9%). Vancouver’s offense should be bolstered by the addition of Tyler Toffoli, who was acquired from the Kings on Monday.

Bettors should also note the Over is 11-4-3 in the last 18 meetings between these two clubs, including a 6-1-1 run in their last eight contests in Rogers Arena.

NHL free pick: Over

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