The New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils are set to face off in the playoffs once again, but this time around, there’s a different aura surrounding the series. While the history between the two teams is well-documented, this year’s matchup promises to have a faster and more electric feel to it than their previous playoff encounters. With both teams featuring young, skilled players who thrive in an up-tempo game, it’s anyone’s guess which squad will come out on top in this high-octane showdown. Let’s take a closer look at what makes this year’s Rangers-Devils playoff series so exciting.
The highly anticipated Eastern Conference First Round best-of-7 series between the New York Rangers and New Jersey Devils is set to begin on Tuesday at the Prudential Center. Rangers forward Chris Kreider, who was a wide-eyed rookie the last time the two teams met in the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2012, understands the importance of the rivalry and knows exactly what to expect this time around. However, he noted that this installment of the “Battle of the Hudson” will look different than the previous six. The biggest difference in the 11 years since the two teams have met in the playoffs is in terms of speed. The Devils’ team speed will present the biggest challenge to the Rangers, as it did in their four regular-season games, three won by New Jersey.
Rangers defenseman Ryan Lindgren said that they need to slow down the Devils’ speed through the neutral zone and be cautious while turning pucks over, as they have some real good shooters like Mika Zibanejad, Artemi Panarin, Vladimir Tarasenko, and Patrick Kane. On the other hand, the Devils need to contend with Rangers goalie Igor Shesterkin, who won the Vezina Trophy as the best goalie in the NHL last season and enters the series playing his best this season. Experience could also be a factor, with the Rangers having more than double the NHL playoff games of the Devils’ team. However, Rangers coach Gerard Gallant believes experience means nothing, and it’s all about who is ready to play for the next two weeks.
The Rangers-Devils playoff series has certainly sparked some excitement and anticipation. With a faster pace than their previous matchup, fans can expect an intense battle on the ice. Both teams will need to bring their A-game if they hope to come out victorious. The only thing left to do now is sit back, grab some popcorn, and enjoy the show. This is going to be one wild ride!
