Welcome back to NHL Predictions. Each day, Last Word on Hockey takes a look at the games that are scheduled and offers insight and analysis to help predict who will be victorious in head-to-head matchups.

The Carolina Hurricanes have made plenty of headlines lately with their acquisition of Mikko Rantanen, the star forward in the NHL, but just like most trades, there will be an adjustment period for him. They also added former #1 overall pick Taylor Hall, who will slot in on the second line.

The Rangers made just four selections in the 2024 NHL Draft but held onto their first-rounder and the pool remains solid.