The stars will be shining on Garden ice in the first of two matchups this weekend for the New York Rangers.
The New York Rangers (22-7-1) host the Edmonton Oilers (13-15-1) at Madison Square Garden to kick off the club's 4th back-to-back set of the season.
The Ranger's 14th home contest of the season will feature three of the league's dynamite forwards Connor McDavid, Leon Draisaitl, and hometown hero Artemi Panarin.
Connor McDavid comes into the contest with 30 assists and 41 points in 27 games skated. Amidst the turmoil that was the Oilers start to the season, McDavid has found his mojo with 7 points in his last 5 games. "McJesus" is a five-time Art Ross Trophy winner, but currently ranks 6th in the NHL in points. He is 9 points away from tallying the 900th of his career.
Leon Draisaitl arrives in the Big Apple colder than his megastar linemate. The 28-year-old lightning rod has 3 points in his last 5 games, and 34 points in 29 contests this campaign. He is currently 21st in point scoring. It is unfamiliar territory for the German forward, who finished 2nd in points in 2023.
No. 97 has set No.29 for 51 shot attempts this season, a combo ranking in the upper echelon of passer-shooter combos according to Meghan Chayka.
It took Artemi Panarin 33 games last season to reach 40 points (October 12th, 2022-December 18th, 2022). "The Bread Man" is now at 43 points (4th in the NHL) entering game 31 of the year. The 32-year-old also leads the Rangers in goals with 17. It took until February 15th to reach that mark last season.
Hockey fans will be treated to some of the best offense on planet Earth tomorrow as the Oilers visit Manhattan tomorrow at 7:30 P.M. (EST).
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