NHL Playoff Race Heats Up: Can the Rangers and Wild Secure Their Spots? Key Matchup Analysis and Projections

NHL Playoff Watch: Rangers vs. Wild Clash with Postseason Implications

Bruce Kluckhohn/NHLI via Getty Images
Apr 2, 2025, 07:00 AM ET

The Struggle for Playoff Positioning

Two teams that began the season with Stanley Cup aspirations now find themselves fighting just to earn playoff berths. The New York Rangers (2024 Presidents' Trophy winners) and Minnesota Wild (early-season conference leaders) have both stumbled down the stretch, each going 8-9-3 in their last 20 games. Their Wednesday night showdown at Madison Square Garden (7 p.m. ET, ESPN+) could determine which team stays alive in this tightly contested playoff race.

Statistical Breakdown

• Minnesota Wild (88 pts):

  • Currently hold the 2nd Western Conference wild card spot
  • 91% playoff probability (per Stathletes)
  • Remaining schedule strength: 2nd easiest (opponents' win%: 46.0%)
  • Concerning stat: 0-6 vs. VGK/WPG, their likely first-round opponents

• New York Rangers (77 pts):

  • Currently outside playoff position
  • Just 27.3% playoff probability
  • Facing 2nd toughest remaining schedule (opponents' win%: 54.1%)
  • Winless vs. WSH (0-3), potential first-round opponent

Key Factors in the Playoff Push

1. Schedule Difficulty Curve
   While Minnesota benefits from facing struggling teams like CHI and SJ down the stretch, the Rangers must navigate games against TOR, FLA (twice), and TB.

2. Head-to-Head History Matters
   Both teams have struggled mightily against their likely playoff opponents should they qualify - a concerning trend entering postseason.

3. The Backup Goalie X-Factor
   With Igor Shesterkin battling inconsistency and Marc-Andre Fleury potentially starting for Minnesota, goaltending could decide this crucial matchup.

Updated Standings & Playoff Scenarios

Eastern Conference Bubble:
The Rangers trail MTL by 2 points for the final WC spot but have 3 games in hand. Their home-heavy schedule (5 of final 8 at MSG) provides opportunity.

Critical Upcoming Games

• Apr 7: NYR @ TB (Potential elimination game)
• Apr 10: MIN @ WPG (Possible playoff preview)
• Apr 14: FLA @ NYR (Could decide both teams' seeding)

Expert Insight

"These are classic late-season momentum teams," says ESPN's Greg Wyshynski. "While Minnesota's path looks smoother on paper, their inability to beat contenders is worrying. The Rangers have higher upside but need Shesterkin to steal some games."

How to Watch Tonight's Action

• Wild @ Rangers: ESPN+, MSG, BSN (7 p.m. ET)
• Full NHL schedule: ESPN NHL Calendar

Playoff probabilities via Stathletes. Updated through games of Apr 1.