Erik Karlsson is quietly having a strong season, pacing for his highest point total since being traded to Pittsburgh.
My Rangers vs. Penguins predictions see Karlsson finding success in a dream matchup against a free-falling team.
Let’s break down my NHL picks for Saturday, January 31.
Rangers vs Penguins prediction
Rangers vs Penguins best bet: Erik Karlsson Over 0.5 points (-120)
Erik Karlsson has points in 61% of his home games this season and enters play red-hot, having piled up 12 over his last 10 in the Steel City. He produced more multi-point efforts (four) than zeros (two) during that span.
The veteran offensive defenseman has consistently taken advantage of strong matchups all season. Karlsson has points in 79% of his home games against teams in the bottom half of the league in goals against.
The New York Rangers meet the criteria. They have allowed more goals than anybody in the 11 games since Igor Shesterkin went down, pushing them closer to the bottom feeders in goals allowed.
Predictably, the increase in goals against is leading to a lot more production for opposing defensemen. The Rangers have allowed the sixth-most goals and fourth-most assists to blueliners over the past 10.
Karlsson will be put in positions to succeed at 5-on-5 and quarterback the top power play against a PK unit clicking at 75% over its last nine.
Expect him to take advantage.
Enjoying Covers content? Add us as a preferred source on your Google account
Rangers vs Penguins same-game parlay
The Rangers haven’t just allowed a ton of points to defensemen of late, but they’ve given up a lot of shots as well.
They’ve conceded the second-most shots to the position over the last 10, and Kris Letang has multiple shots in 67% of his games against sides ranking Bottom-16 in shots against vs. defenders.
Last but not least, we are backing the best player of his era. Pittsburgh Penguins captain Sidney Crosby still knows how to put the puck in the net, and he’s scored in seven of nine home games against Bottom-10 teams in points allowed.
Rangers vs Penguins SGP
- Erik Karlsson Over 0.5 points
- Kris Letang Over 1.5 shots on goal
- Sidney Crosby anytime goal
Rangers vs Penguins odds
- Moneyline: New York +165 | Pittsburgh -200
- Puck line: New York +1.5 (-145) | Pittsburgh -1.5 (+125)
- Over/Under: Over 6.5 (+100) | Under 6.5 (-120)
Rangers vs Penguins trend
Erik Karlsson has points in eight of his last 10 home games. Find more NHL betting trends for Rangers vs. Penguins.
How to watch Rangers vs Penguins
| Location | PPG Paints Arena, Pittsburgh, PA |
| Date | Saturday, January 31, 2026 |
| Puck drop | 3:30 p.m. ET |
| TV | ABC |
Rangers vs Penguins latest injuries
Odds are correct at the time of publishing and are subject to change.
Not intended for use in MA.
Affiliate Disclosure: Our team of experts has thoroughly researched and handpicked each product that appears on our website. We may receive compensation if you sign up through our links.
