The New York Rangers will cross the Hudson River to battle with the Devils for the third time this season in what will kick off a six game road trip. The Blueshirts will look to change the tide as they are 0 for 2 against New Jersey so far this season. The Devils are currently on a three game losing streak and are 3-6 since coming off their two week Covid-19 hiatus. This will certainly be an important game for both teams as they are only three points apart in the standings, the Rangers with 19 and the Devils with 16. The Devils however, have two less games played than New York. The Rangers need to start collecting wins and this road trip presents the perfect opportunity for them to do so, starting tonight.
As the Rangers wrap up their morning skate in which everyone was a participant aside from Artemi Panrin, David Quinn confirmed they will run the same lineup as Tuesday night.
Lafreniere - Zibanejad - Buchnevich
Kreider - Strome - Blackwell
Rooney - Chytil - Gauthier
Lemieux - Howden - Di Giuseppe
Lindgren - Fox
Miller - Smith
Johnson - Hajek
Jacob Trouba was out there in a no contact jersey, although still recovering, DQ mentioned he can see him returning at some point during this road trip. Kaapo Kakko was another limited participant in today's skate and while he won't go tonight is close to returning as well. No update on Bitetto other than he will remain out against New Jersey tonight.
Additionally, Igor Sheshterkin will get the nod, well deserved after his outing against Buffalo. On top of shooting for the empty net in the final minutes, Sheshterkin played with poise and confidence, coming up with some huge saves. Steve Valiquette mentioned in pre game Tuesday how Sheshterkin needed to start "stealing some wins" for the Rangers to get going and he certainly stood on his head at times to secure the Rangers victory. He more likely than not will be going against Mackenzie Blackwood who has been strong for the Devils this season, especially against the Rangers.
NYR need to start off strong and get pucks and bodies to the net. Blackwood is a big goalie and the best chance to beat him is screens, tip ins and deflections. Kreider has been red hot for the Rangers so look for him to keep it going and be aggressive around the net. Julien Gauthier is another one who has been playing well and building up confidence, look for him to have a strong outing in a game where his style will be very beneficial. Lastly, look for the struggling Brendan Lemieux to turn it up a notch against one of the teams biggest rivals. His Dad played part of his career in New Jersey, he's a tough kid who is not stranger to dropping the gloves, playing physical and feeding off energy in match ups like this. Wouldn't be surprised at all if he picks it up tonight and helps get this Rangers team going in a game that could alter the momentum of this season.
Chris Feldman
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