The New York Rangers and Pittsburgh Penguins are set to clash again at Madison Square Garden, and the landscape has shifted dramatically since their opening night face-off. Back then, the Rangers were shut out 3-0, and now they find themselves trailing the Penguins by a hefty 21 points. As they prepare for their Saturday matinee, the Rangers are grappling with a challenging season.
With a record of 22-29-7, the Rangers have struggled to find the back of the net, being shut out nine times, including seven at home. They’re tied with the Vancouver Canucks for the fewest home wins in the NHL, each with just six.
Only the Canucks have fewer points in the standings, with the Rangers sitting at 51 after a tough 3-2 overtime loss to the Flyers. Despite the return of key players Igor Shesterkin and Adam Fox, who both missed 13 games due to injury, the Rangers let a 2-0 lead slip away.
While the Rangers have faced disappointment, the Penguins (30-15-12) are enjoying a resurgence. They’ve climbed to second in the Metropolitan Division, a remarkable turnaround after missing the playoffs for three consecutive seasons under coach Mike Sullivan-now at the helm for the Rangers.
The Penguins are riding a 9-1-3 streak since mid-January, showcasing their depth even without captain Sidney Crosby, who’s out with an injury. Their depth was on full display in a recent 6-5 victory over the Rangers.
Key Storylines for the Rangers vs. Penguins Matchup
- Finding Motivation in Tough Times
Rangers coach Mike Sullivan has shifted from Olympic glory to navigating a challenging season. He emphasizes the importance of competing hard every night and seizing opportunities for younger players to make their mark. One such player is Brendan Brisson, recalled from the AHL and making an impression in his debut with significant ice time and scoring chances.
- Awaiting the New Addition
The Rangers recently claimed Tye Kartye off waivers from the Seattle Kraken. While he's not expected to debut immediately, Kartye brings a physical presence and strong penalty-killing skills to the table. His eventual inclusion could bolster the Rangers' lineup as they look to shake things up.
- Reviving Special Teams
Special teams play has been a sore spot for the Rangers, as highlighted by their struggles against the Flyers. With a power play that faltered and a penalty kill that allowed a crucial goal, Sullivan is looking for a turnaround. Meanwhile, the Penguins boast one of the league's top power plays and penalty kills, adding another layer of challenge for the Rangers.
Projected Lineup for the Rangers
- Forwards: J.T. Miller, Mika Zibanejad, Gabe Perreault, Will Cuylle, Vincent Trocheck, Alexis Lafreniere, Conor Sheary, Noah Laba, Brendan Brisson, Jonny Brodzinski, Sam Carrick, Taylor Raddysh
- Defensemen: Vladislav Gavrikov, Adam Fox, Braden Schneider, Will Borgen, Matthew Robertson, Vincent Iorio
- Goalies: Igor Shesterkin, Jonathan Quick
Game Details
- Matchup: New York Rangers vs. Pittsburgh Penguins
- Date and Time: Saturday, February 28, 12:30 p.m. ET
- Location: Madison Square Garden
- Broadcast: ABC
As the Rangers look to regain their footing, they face a formidable opponent in the Penguins. With plenty of storylines and individual battles to watch, this matchup promises to be an intriguing chapter in the season.