NHL Predictions: New York Rangers vs Washington Capitals; October 9th

The New York Rangers visit the Washington Capitals on October 9, 2026, marking their first matchup of the season and Alex Ovechkin's final campaign. Zach Yusko of Last Word On Hockey predicts the Rangers will defeat the Capitals 4-2, extending their winning streak to five games. The Rangers enter the contest with a 4-1-0 record, while Washington stands at 2-1-0 heading into the clash at Capital One Arena.

Goaltender Igor Shesterkin is projected to start for New York against Washington's Logan Thompson. The Rangers enter following a 5-2 win over the New York Islanders featuring an Alexis Lafrenière hat trick and two goals from Oliver Bjorkstrand. Meanwhile, Washington relies on early production from Pierre-Luc Dubois and Tom Wilson, who each lead the Capitals with four points.