The New Jersey Devils are staring at an early end to their season, sitting 11 points shy of a playoff spot with just 12 games left on the docket. It’s a tough hill to climb, especially with four teams standing in their way. The math just doesn’t favor them making a miraculous comeback this time around.
Meanwhile, across the Hudson, the New York Rangers have officially been knocked out of postseason contention. Both teams are battling for the dubious honor of being the league's most disappointing squad this season. While the Toronto Maple Leafs might take that crown, the Devils and Rangers aren't far behind.
In response to their underwhelming season, the Rangers have decided not to raise ticket prices for the 2026-27 season. This move aligns with their tradition of keeping prices steady when the playoffs are missed.
It's a smart play from the Rangers' management, especially given the current mood among fans. In the bustling business hub of Manhattan, companies often snap up these tickets for client entertainment, and they likely would have absorbed a price hike.
However, by holding the line on prices, the Rangers score a win for their brand, offering a rare positive headline in a season short on them.
On the other side, the Devils have shown flashes of improvement since the Olympic break, but overall, it’s been a season to forget. One bright spot?
Jack Hughes. His Golden Goal has catapulted him to superstar status, making him a hot commodity on talk shows and boosting his profile after leading Team USA to gold.
Hughes is now a major selling point for the Devils, and they’re unlikely to pass up on leveraging his newfound fame.
While Devils' tickets are generally more affordable than those of the Rangers, raising prices after such a lackluster season could be risky. It might lead to fewer season ticket sales and could sour fan sentiment further, potentially pricing out loyal supporters. It’s a gamble that could backfire, especially if the team decides to overhaul its leadership in the off-season.