The Rangers are one of the hottest teams in the league right now. They are 11-3-1 in their last 15, including 6-1-1 in their last eight. The Isles are also playing strong hockey, posting a 7-2-1 mark in their last ten, making them relevant in the Metropolitan Division once again. Tonight will be the first of three meetings between the clubs this month, with two more coming on 1/29 (Stadium Series) and 1/31. Taking all three would go a long way for the Rangers in putting distance between them and the rest of the division.
The Isles run an aggressive 1-2-2 forecheck and a 1-1-3 lock depending on the score, which they use to counter other teams mistakes. In the defensive zone, the Isles play man-on-man, so expect our defense to get pressured along the blueline. Look for blown coverages, as this Isles team is still a bit raw on defense. On special teams, the Isles run a 1-3-1 power play and a hybrid penalty kill.
Rangers Lineup:
Chris Kreider–Derek Stepan–Rick Nash
Carl Hagelin–Brad Richards–Ryan Callahan
Benoit Pouliot–Derick Brassard–Mats Zuccarello
Brian Boyle–Dominic Moore-Dan Carcillo
Ryan McDonagh–Dan Girardi
Marc Staal–Anton Stralman
Michael Del Zotto–John Moore
Cam Talbot gets the start.
Scratches/Injuries: Derek Dorsett (broken leg), Henrik Lundqvist (illness), Justin Falk (healthy)
Game time is 7m on MSG. Don’t forget to check out our Rangers Tickets link for deals to attend games.
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