The Rangers seek a different result at the Prudential Center to start the 2023-2024 season.
The New York Rangers (11-2-1) take on the New Jersey Devils (8-6-1) at the Prudential Center tonight at 7:00 PM (EST). Here are the keys to the Ranger's first trip across the bridge since Game 7 of the 2023 ECQF.
1st Picks Galore: Jack Hughes has returned from his injury, which means two 1st overall picks will be playing against each other, this year to their fullest potential. Hughes recorded a record-breaking 20 points in his first 10 games. Last season the Rangers couldn't compare but this season has seen the evolution of Alexis Lafreniere. He's posted 7 goals in 14 games, playing with confidence on the rush. Jack's brother Luke was a 4th overall draft pick, collecting 10 points in 15 games. 2019 2nd Overall selection Kaapo Kakko is still trying to find his game, while 2018 No.1 pick Nico Hischier may be sidelined.
Speed Demons: The Rangers front office responds to adversity. Following the Tom Wilson incident, they added grit. After a series of New Turnpike acceleration levels from the Devils, the Rangers hired Peter Laviolette to upgrade the team's speed. Whoever can slow down their opponent through the neutral zone has the best chance of winning.
Depth vs Bodies: New Jersey Devils THN reporter Kristy Flannery stated on PuckTalkCS that the Devils lack depth scoring. The Rangers do not. Even with the Ranger's volume of injuries, players like Erik Gustafsson, Will Cuylle, and Vincent Trocheck have seamlessly provided the same punch the team has needed to win competitive hockey games.
The Breadman: Artemi Panarin is on a heater. The Bread Man has 24 points which tied him for 2nd in the NHL. After a dismal playoff series against New Jersey, Panarin looks like a different player coming into this contest.
It's A Power-Play Goal: The Devils have the best powerplay in the NHL and the Rangers have the second-best powerplay in the NHL. The Rangers throttled New Jersey on the man advantage in late April. Chris Kreider who had 5 powerplay goals in those 7 games currently leads the NHL in the category. It may come down to which team takes more penalties and capitalizes on their chances.
Although NHL fans won't see Adam Fox, Filip Chytil, and Timo Meier playing in one of the most intense hockey rivalries tonight, there is still plenty to be excited about.
Need to know more about the game tonight? Listen to New Jersey Devils reporter Kristy Flannery talk about.