The Ragers face their biggest test yet against the red hot Jets.
"Prove yourselves, Rangers; Prove yourselves!"
That's the message every Rangers fan should be thinking prior to tonight's Garden match with the NHL-leading Winnipeg Jets. Time to read up on the proving grounds:
PROVING GROUND FOR IGOR: We know that Shesterkin can beat the league's Humpties. But hot Peg has lost only one game so far and Connor Hellebuyck will be guarding the net at the other side. This is a classic "Who's Better In Goal?" matchup.
PROVING GROUND FOR DEFENSE: There've been nights when it's tough to tell who's worse, K'Andre Miller or Jacob Trouba. We know Zac Jones can play and Ryan Lindgren will give his blood. We don't know whether Peter Laviolette trusts Victor Mancini.
PROVING GROUND FOR 4TH LINERS: Now that Matt Rempe is in Hartford, the Last-Line Battle is between Jonny Brodzinski and Adam Edstrom. Meanwhile, Sammy Carrick and Jimmy Vesey smoothly adjust to everyone.
PROVING GROUND FOR ZIBANEJAD: Once upon a time magical Mika played like he deserved to be a top center. Ever since the end of Covid, Sir Stockholm has been playing as if he's auditioning for a spot on the third line. Tonight is a wake-up call for Z!
PROVING GROUND FOR LAVIOLETTE: Pistol Pete will match wits with Scott Arniel who – pre-season – was not my candidate for the Adams Award as Coach of the Year. Lavvy is notorious for a lousy follow-up season. It would be nice if he tops the new guy!