New York Rangers vs San Jose Sharks Prediction | NHL 23.01.26

New York Rangers vs San Jose Sharks Game Analysis | 23-01-2026 | NHL

This regular-season matchup on January 23, 2026, at 10:00 PM in SAP Center at San Jose pits the New York Rangers (21-24-6) against the San Jose Sharks (25-21-3). The Sharks enter this contest with a more favorable record, indicating stronger recent performance compared to the struggling Rangers.

New York Rangers Team Performance

The New York Rangers find themselves in a challenging stretch, reflected by their sub-.500 record of 21-24-6. Their performance has been inconsistent, often relying heavily on individual brilliance rather than cohesive team play. While they possess top-tier talent, significant injuries have undoubtedly hampered their ability to maintain momentum and defensive structure. The absence of key players like Adam Fox disrupts their blue-line stability and power-play efficiency, forcing younger or less experienced players into larger roles. Offensively, they can be potent, but a lack of secondary scoring depth often puts immense pressure on their top line.

New York Rangers Key Players

• Points: Artemi Panarin (56)
• Goals: Mika Zibanejad (21)
• Assists: Artemi Panarin (37)

Injury Report New York Rangers

• Adam Fox (Injured reserve): Fox (lower body) will be placed on long-term injured reserve.
• Conor Sheary (Injured reserve): long-term injured reserve.
• Adam Edstrom (Injured reserve): Edstrom (lower body) was placed on long-term injured reserve.

San Jose Sharks Team Performance

The San Jose Sharks have shown more promise this season, boasting a respectable 25-21-3 record. Their success is largely driven by a dynamic offense, spearheaded by their young phenom. Despite some notable injuries, the Sharks have managed to find ways to win, particularly at home. Their ability to generate offense consistently, combined with opportunistic goaltending, has been a key strength. However, their defensive consistency can sometimes waver, making them susceptible to high-scoring affairs. The return of key players from injury could further bolster their lineup depth.

San Jose Sharks Key Players

• Points: Macklin Celebrini (72)
• Goals: Macklin Celebrini (24)
• Assists: Macklin Celebrini (48)

Injury Report San Jose Sharks

• Kiefer Sherwood (Injured reserve): Sherwood (upper body) is hoping to be ready in time to face Vancouver on Tuesday.
• Ty Dellandrea (Injured reserve): Dellandrea (lower body) was placed on injured reserve.
• Shakir Mukhamadullin (Injured reserve): Mukhamadullin (upper body) will be with the Sharks for their four-game road trip.
• Philipp Kurashev (Injured reserve): Kurashev (upper body) won’t be with the Sharks when they leave for a four-game road trip, though he could join up later if cleared.
• Logan Couture (Injured reserve): long-term injured reserve.

Prediction: New York Rangers vs San Jose Sharks

Considering the current form and significant injury woes for the Rangers, particularly on defense with Adam Fox sidelined, the San Jose Sharks are the clear favorites in this matchup. Their stronger record and the exceptional offensive output from Macklin Celebrini give them a distinct advantage. With both teams facing defensive absences, but the Rangers struggling more broadly, expect a competitive game where the Sharks ultimately prevail. The total goals prediction is under 6.5, as Rangers’ offensive consistency is questionable without key contributors, and both teams might play a more structured game given their injury lists.