NHL Predictions: Dec 16 Washington Capitals vs Minnesota Wild

Welcome back to another NHL Predictions. Each day, our writers here at Last Word on Hockey look at the games and give in-depth analysis. Our team breaks down the key matchups, storylines, and stats, then makes predictions based on how they might play out. For this edition, we will look at the Washington Capitals taking on the Minnesota Wild. Don’t forget to check out more NHL Predictions, as our writers continue this series throughout the 2025-26 season.

NHL Predictions

Vancouver Canucks vs New York Rangers

Head-to-Head: Canucks 0-1 Rangers

How to Watch:

US TV: MSG; ESPN+

Canada TV: SN Pacific

Time: 7 p.m. Eastern Standard Time (EST)

We open up NHL predictions with the second encounter between the Vancouver Canucks and the New York Rangers. Vancouver is expected to give Thatcher Demko the start. However, always check social media before locking in a daily fantasy starter. The Canucks are 3-6-1 in the previous 10 games, but did get a 2-1 win over the New Jersey Devils on Sunday afternoon. New acquisition Zeev Buium got a goal and an assist in the victory.

Jonathan Quick is expected to get the start for the Rangers, who will be playing the second game in as many nights. Quick got a 23-save shutout for the Blueshirts in a 2-0 win over the Canucks on October 28. New York was 6-2-2 heading into Monday night’s game against the Anaheim Ducks. Artemi Panarin is tied for the team lead in goals with 11 heading into Monday night’s action.

Vancouver is going through a transition period, but the younger players, such as Buium and Marco Rossi, have made a good first impression. However, the Blueshirts get the victory at home.

Prediction: Rangers win 4-2.