Rangers Run It Back, Penguins Hoping for a Playoff Push
New York Rangers Aim for Stanley Cup Glory; Pittsburgh Penguins Seek Playoff Redemption in 2024-25 Season
The excitement of the NHL season is upon us once again! Just months after the Florida Panthers claimed the Stanley Cup, the puck is set to drop for the new season. With a packed schedule on tap, tonight’s highlight features the New York Rangers taking on the Pittsburgh Penguins in Pittsburgh. This matchup is significant for both teams: the Penguins are eager to return to playoff contention after missing out last season, while the Rangers are determined to take the final step toward a Stanley Cup after falling short in the Eastern Conference Finals. The game is set to begin at 7:30 PM EST.
New York Rangers: Repeating Last Year’s Success
The New York Rangers enter the 2024-25 NHL season with aspirations of building on their successful campaign from last year, where they advanced to the Eastern Conference Finals before losing to the eventual champions, the Florida Panthers. With an impressive record of 55 wins and 114 points, the Rangers dominated the regular season, securing the top seed in the Eastern Conference.
One of the strengths of the Rangers is their depth; they return six of their top seven defensemen, including star Adam Fox, and 11 of their top 13 forwards. Alexis Lafreniere, now entering his fifth NHL season, is poised for a breakout year after setting personal bests in goals and points last season. Many analysts anticipate he could potentially surpass the 40-goal mark this year, adding even more firepower to an already potent offense.
Goalkeeper Igor Shesterkin remains the cornerstone of the Rangers’ ambitions. He displayed stellar form in the latter half of last season, going 17-5-1 with a 2.20 GAA over his final 23 games, a performance that was pivotal in the Rangers’ playoff run. With 23 of 25 players who appeared in last year’s regular season returning, along with a healthy roster, the Rangers are well-positioned to vie for another top spot in the Eastern Conference. Their objective is clear: secure a favorable playoff position and take a serious shot at the Stanley Cup.
Pittsburgh Penguins: A Determined Playoff Push
For the Pittsburgh Penguins, the urgency to return to the playoffs is palpable. With superstar Sidney Crosby entering his 20th season, the clock is ticking on the franchise’s championship window. Crosby recently signed a two-year contract that suggests he intends to finish his illustrious career in Pittsburgh.
Last season, the Penguins struggled, finishing with a 38-32 record and missing the postseason. However, the organization has been proactive in making changes. They traded Reilly Smith to the Rangers, saw Jeff Carter retire, and welcomed new faces like Kevin Hayes and Rutger McGroarty through trades. The additions of Blake Lizotte and Anthony Beauvillier should further bolster the forward lineup. With returning stars like Crosby, Evgeni Malkin, Erik Karlsson, and Kris Letang, the Penguins maintain a wealth of offensive talent.
Tristan Jarry will be the key in goal for Pittsburgh. He missed the last 13 games of last season due to injury, finishing with a 19-25-5 record and a 2.91 GAA. Given that backup Alex Nedeljkovic posted an 18-7-7 record with a 2.97 GAA, the Penguins may opt for a dual approach in net to determine their primary goalie.
Despite their struggles last season, the Penguins’ offensive firepower cannot be overlooked. They finished at the bottom of the league in power play efficiency, a shocking statistic given the talent on their roster. The potential resurgence of Hayes, who previously recorded 54 points with the Flyers, could provide the jolt they need to elevate their power play and overall game.
Conclusion
As the new season unfolds, both the New York Rangers and Pittsburgh Penguins are gearing up for a clash that promises excitement and drama, with playoff aspirations firmly in sight. The Rangers aim for glory, while the Penguins strive for redemption—making this matchup a must-watch for hockey fans everywhere.
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