Standings: Devils (36-24-5), Rangers (42-15-7)

NYR Leading Scorer: Marian Gaborik (32-26-58)
NJD Leading Scorer: Ilya Kovalchuk (25-37-62)

NYR Goaltender: Henrik Lundqvist (48 GS, 1.82 GAA, .940 SV%)
NJD Goaltender: Martin Brodeur (45 GS, 2.53 GAA, .900 SV%)

Rangers Lines (probable):

Artem Anisimov-Derek Stepan-Marian Gaborik
Brandon Dubinsky-Brad Richards-Carl Hagelin
Ruslan Fedotenko-Brian Boyle- Brandon Prust
Mike Rupp-John Mitchell-Ryan Callahan/John Scott

Ryan McDonagh-Dan Girardi
Michael Del Zotto–Steve Eminger
Marc Staal-Stu Bickel

Henrik Lundqvist gets the nod.

Probable Scratches/Injuries:  Mike Sauer (concussion), Ryan Callahan (foot)/John Scott (healthy), Jeff Woywitka (healthy), Anton Stralman (healthy)

Preview: These two teams combined for 28 shots on goal last game, so this should be another one of those games where the Devils use their 1-2-2 forecheck to attempt to shut down the Rangers offense. The problem with the Devils is that they focus so much on defense, that their offense tends to suffer, especially in the third period. How many times have we heard that the Devils have been out shot by double digits in the final period?

The Devils are 1-4-1 in their last six, but always come to play against the Rangers. Although both teams likely have playoffs spots locked up, there is going to be some dirty play occurring. The Rangers might be looking for retribution on David Clarkson, who left his feet in an attempt to run Brandon Dubinsky. That won’t be tolerated.

In addition to Clarkson, the Devils will be dressing Eric Boulton and Cam Janssen. The Rangers are going to counter with Mike Rupp, Brandon Prust, and John Scott (if Ryan Callahan cannot go tonight). There’s going to be plenty of rough stuff tonight.

Crazy Thought: Last time the Rangers played the Bruins my “crazy thought” was Anisimov invites Thomas to the Snipehouse. Arty scored. I am doubling down. Got that Chris F?

Opposition Blog: Hell On Ice

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