Rangers tie franchise record with 10th straight win, defeat Flyers 2-1

Since the All-Star break, the Rangers have been virtually unstoppable. The Avalanche, Stanley Cup winners two years ago, couldn’t halt them. Neither could the Lightning, champions of the previous two Stanley Cups, nor the Devils, who ended their playoff run aspirations last year before the second round.

This trend continued on Saturday as the Rangers secured their 10th consecutive win, tying a franchise record, by defeating the Flyers 2-1 at Wells Fargo Center. Igor Shesterkin got the start for the Rangers in net, and Samuel Ersson toed the crease for Philadelphia. With their win on Saturday, they can set a new record when they face the Blue Jackets on Sunday.

Matt Rempe’s first NHL goal in the third period sealed their latest triumph and solidified a solid evening for the rookie. Rempe’s impactful night began with a throwback fight in the first period against Nicolas Deslauriers, featuring a nearly 40-second exchange of punches. This marked Rempe’s second fight in four games since his call-up. His presence served as a spark, not only in the first period but also in the third when he deflected Braden Schneider’s shot into the Flyers’ net.

Goaltender Igor Shesterkin underwent a reset after entering the All-Star break with concerning numbers but the Rangers’ support for their goaltender remained steadfast. Shesterkin’s save percentage has rebounded to .907 with wins in his past five starts before securing his sixth consecutive win on Saturday, making 39 saves against the Flyers.

The former No. 1 pick Alexis Lafreniere continued his impressive run with a goal, bringing his total to five during the Rangers’ winning streak. His performance is particularly encouraging after facing long goal droughts earlier in the season.

Although the Flyers managed to level the game in the third period, the Rangers’ resilience propelled them past the Kraken and Panthers in the points battle, securing the second-longest winning streak in the league for the season.

While the Rangers still need six more wins to surpass the Oilers’ 16-game mark for the longest winning streak this season, their current momentum has instilled confidence. The 10-game winning streak opens up possibilities, and the Rangers, with their recent standout performances, look poised for success in the postseason. Rempe’s contribution to the latest victory exemplifies the team’s resilience and potential.