Lightning vs Rangers Picks and Prediction – 4/7/2025

The Tampa Bay Lightning (44-26-6) will visit the New York Rangers (36-33-7) at Madison Square Garden on Monday, April 7, 2025, with the puck dropping at 7:00 PM ET. The Lightning have secured a playoff berth, while the Rangers are striving to keep their postseason hopes alive.​ Get in on the action with our free NHL picks.

The Lightning have clinched a playoff spot for the eighth consecutive season and are aiming to close the gap in the Atlantic Division standings. They are currently on a two-game losing streak, including a recent 3-2 shootout loss to the Buffalo Sabres. Offensively, Tampa Bay ranks second in the league, averaging 3.56 goals per game. Their power play is also formidable, converting at a rate of 24.8%. Defensively, they allow an average of 2.58 goals per game. ​

The Rangers are coming off a 4-0 loss to the New Jersey Devils, which snapped a two-game winning streak. Their offense has struggled recently, particularly on the power play, which has declined to an 18% success rate, ranking 25th in the NHL. Defensively, they have conceded four or more goals in three of their last four games. Goaltender Igor Shesterkin has a season record of 25-27-5 and has lost three of his last four starts. 

This matchup features a Lightning team looking to improve their playoff positioning against a Rangers squad fighting to stay in the postseason race. Tampa Bay is a strong team and NY has played inconsistently all season. We will trust the talent and stability of the Lighting to win this one 3-1.