NHL Spotlight: The New York Rangers

The New York Rangers had a very successful regular season. After clinching a playoff spot in the Stanley Cup and winning numerous awards, what comes next?

Ever since a devastating loss to the New Jersey Devils last spring in the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the Rangers have been determined to shine even brighter this season.

As the regular season has officially ended, the Rangers are right alongside other teams fighting in their “quest for the cup.” While the journey was not easy, the Rangers became one of the most successful teams this season, receiving a wide array of awards for their team, players, and coaching skills.

First, the Rangers had an electrifying game on Monday night to conclude the regular season against the Ottawa Senators. Star players, such as Artemi Panarin had a goal and an assist, with Alexis Lafreniere scoring his twenty-eighth goal of the season. Beloved goalie Igor Shesterkin made twenty-six saves throughout the game, achieving his fourth shutout in a 4-0 game.  

The NHL (National Hockey League) is quickly preparing for the first round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, with several different teams playing in their first round tonight. Some teams include the New York Islanders against the Pittsburgh Penguins and the Toronto Maple Leafs against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Now, how does all of this impact the Rangers? It’s simple. The Rangers have had one of their best seasons yet and hope to carry that energy into the playoffs. In addition to receiving the President’s Trophy, awarded to teams with the best regular-season record, the Rangers have also received other accolades. 

The Rangers recently announced that they secured the most wins (54) in a regular season and the most comeback wins (28) in their fight to outperform from the 2022-2023 regular season. Alternate goalie Jonathan Quick set another record again, this time player-wise.

Quick secured the most wins among American-born goalies in NHL history with 392 wins. An impressive feat, passing other world-renowned goalie Ryan Miller by one point.

Finally, with all these accolades and a record-breaking season, it’s no wonder why the anticipation is so high for the “boys in blue” to win the Stanley Cup. With their last Stanley Cup win in 1994, nearly 30 years ago, fans expect a significant comeback. 

Tensions are high as the playoffs begin this week, as the Rangers are a top seed facing off a postseason foe from past years. The Rangers will face the Washington Capitals in round one at home base in Madison Square Garden, located in the heart of New York City.