The Battle of New York is back on the ice Wednesday night, as the Rangers head across town to face the Islanders at UBS Arena. It’s the first of a back-to-back set between these two rivals, and the timing couldn’t be more interesting. With just four games left before the Olympic break, the Rangers are looking to keep their momentum rolling-and possibly send a message in the process.
There’s an extra layer of pride in the air too. J.T.
Miller and Vincent Trocheck are set to represent Team USA at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympics, and they’ll want to head into the break on a high note. Both have been key contributors this season, and their selection to the national team speaks volumes about the kind of campaign they’ve put together.
How to Watch Rangers vs. Islanders
If you're tuning in from the Rangers’ local market, you can catch the game on MSG 2, with puck drop set for 7 p.m. ET.
Prefer to stream? The Gotham Sports App has you covered.
It works with a cable or satellite login, but also offers options for cord-cutters and fans looking to purchase individual games. If you subscribe to Spectrum, Optimum, Verizon Fios, DirecTV Stream, or fuboTV, you’re good to go.
National broadcasts may also be available on ESPN+, Hulu, or MAX, depending on the network carrying the game. So if the game ends up on ABC, ESPN, TNT, TBS, or TruTV, keep an eye on those platforms.
What’s Ahead for the Rangers
Here’s a look at the Rangers’ schedule as they close out January and head into February:
Remaining January Games:
- Wednesday, Jan. 28: at New York Islanders - 7 p.m.
- Thursday, Jan. 29: vs New York Islanders - 7 p.m.
- Saturday, Jan. 31: at Pittsburgh Penguins - 3:30 p.m.
February Matchups:
- Thursday, Feb. 5: vs Carolina Hurricanes - 7 p.m.
- Thursday, Feb. 26: vs Philadelphia Flyers - 8 p.m.
- Saturday, Feb. 28: vs Pittsburgh Penguins - 12:30 p.m.
With the Olympic break looming, these next few games matter-not just for the standings, but for setting the tone heading into a crucial stretch of the season. The Rangers have shown flashes of elite play this year, and now it’s about consistency, especially against division foes like the Islanders and Penguins.
So whether you're watching for the playoff implications, the Olympic-bound stars, or just the good old-fashioned rivalry, Wednesday night’s game promises to deliver. Drop the puck. Let’s go.